KINGSLEY EBERE
Ndigbo Media Forum Worldwide has blasted the Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for his controversial remark banning 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, from entering the State.
P.M.EXPRESS reports that the group was compelled to address the ongoing threats against Mr. Obi and the Governor’s prohibition of Obi’s entry into his State as blatant infringement on his human rights and a threat to his safety.
This was disclosed by the National Coordinator of the group, Rev. Paul Eze, in a statement, in which he described the comments as very irresponsible and careless coming from the Governor who occupies a revered executive office and demanded an immediate halt to these threats.
“The right to freedom of movement and expression is fundamental, and no individual should be denied these rights without just cause.”
“Mr. Peter Obi like other Nigerians, deserves to be treated with dignity and respect regardless of his political affiliation.”
“While we may not share the same political party affiliation with Mr. Obi, we believe that his human rights should be protected and respected. If anything happens to Mr. Obi, consequences will be severe, and those responsible will be held accountable.”
“We therefore, urge the surrogates of whosoever is involved and the relevant authorities to take note that Ndigbo will not be intimidated or silenced as long as Obi is concerned.”
“We overplay the politics, we politicize everything, and in doing so, we forget the real issues that affect our people. We prioritize party loyalty over welfare and safety of our citizens, and this is a recipe for disaster” Eze lamented.
In the similar way, The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has taken a swipe at Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, for his controversial remark declaring former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, persona non grata in the state.
The National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, described the governor’s statement as “disgraceful and undemocratic”.
Abdullahi emphasised that Peter Obi, as a Nigerian citizen, does not require any form of permission or security clearance to visit any part of the country, including Edo State.
“Edo State is a Nigerian State. Obi is a free citizen and does not need the governor’s clearance to visit Nigerians in their own country,” Abdullahi wrote.
He further stated that such a remark reflects poorly on the governor’s understanding of constitutional rights and the principles of democracy.
