Edo Governor's Threat to Peter Obi Sparks National Outrage Over Constitutional Rights

A major political controversy has erupted in Nigeria after Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo warned former presidential candidate Peter Obi to seek his approval before visiting the state, citing security concerns. The governor's remarks have been widely condemned by political leaders, human rights lawyers, and civil society groups as unconstitutional and a threat to Nigeria's unity and democracy. Critics argue that freedom of movement is a fundamental right, not subject to a governor's discretion, and warn that such actions set a dangerous precedent for political intolerance. Peter Obi has dismissed the threat, asserting his right to visit any state, while calls mount for Governor Okpebholo to retract his statement and apologize. The incident has intensified debates about democratic freedoms and the growing authoritarian tendencies among some Nigerian governors.