A prominent human rights organisation, Global Rights, has called for a public apology from the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, in response to what it described as an inflammatory and unconstitutional remark directed at former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the organisation urged the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Nigeria Governors’ Forum to not only condemn the governor’s remarks but also ensure that the matter is thoroughly investigated by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Global Rights stressed that the Nigerian Constitution unequivocally guarantees the freedom of movement for all citizens.
“Let us be clear. No governor in Nigeria possesses the constitutional authority to restrict the movement of any Nigerian citizen within the country. Mr Obi, like every Nigerian, is protected under Section 41 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which affirms the right to move freely throughout Nigeria and to reside in any part thereof,” the statement asserted.
The organisation also noted that the governor’s statement contained a veiled threat of violence, cautioning that if any harm were to befall Mr Obi or his supporters, “the source of the threat would be unmistakable.”
Speaking further, Global Rights Executive Director, Abiodun Baiyewu, emphasised that while the comments were made at a partisan event, such utterances must never be excused or dismissed.
“Leaders must exercise restraint and responsibility in their public statements. In a democracy as delicate as Nigeria’s, careless rhetoric can incite unrest and cause tangible harm,” she warned.
The group further criticised the conspicuous silence of influential figures and institutions, lamenting the growing tendency to prioritise partisan allegiance over constitutional principles.
“Nigeria’s democratic future rests on the consistent defence of fundamental freedoms. Every leader must rise to this responsibility,” the statement concluded.