Threat on Peter Obi Challenges Nigeria’s Unity, Democracy — Abaribe
Former Senate Minority Leader and Chairman of the South East Senate Caucus, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, has condemned the reported restriction placed on former Anambra State Governor, Mr. Peter Obi, by the Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, describing it as a direct affront to Nigeria’s unity and a brazen violation of the Constitution.
In a strongly worded statement released in Abuja on Wednesday by his Media Adviser, Uchenna Awom, Senator Abaribe expressed dismay over what he called an “unconscionable abuse of office” and warned that the governor’s remarks could ignite a divisive trajectory capable of undermining Nigeria’s fragile democracy.
The lawmaker stated:
> “Nigeria remains a constitutional democracy where the rights of citizens—particularly freedom of movement and association—are guaranteed by the 1999 Constitution (as amended). It is, therefore, disheartening that leaders who are supposed to be custodians of the Constitution are now at the forefront of its denigration in the name of politics.”
Abaribe questioned the constitutional basis for the governor’s alleged declaration that Mr. Obi must obtain permission before entering Edo State, describing such a condition as a dangerous precedent.
> “One wonders where Governor Okpebholo derives the authority to bar any Nigerian from visiting a state within the federation unless they first seek his permission. That is not only unlawful but a thinly veiled threat to the safety and life of a fellow citizen—one that security agencies must not ignore.”
He warned that Nigeria cannot afford to descend into lawlessness at the whim of political actors.
> “It is very unfortunate that our dear country appears to be sliding toward anarchy. I sincerely hope and pray that nothing happens to Mr. Peter Obi.”
Recalling Okpebholo’s previous role as a senator, Abaribe added:
> “As a former lawmaker, Governor Okpebholo should know better. Nigeria belongs to all of us. He is dead wrong to arrogate to himself powers he clearly does not possess. Democracy thrives on divergent views, constructive engagement, and, above all, respect for the rule of law.”
He concluded by calling for restraint and urging all leaders to uphold the tenets of democracy and the Constitution they swore to defend.
