Nigerian opposition lawmakers have sharply criticized Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo over alleged threats made against Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, escalating tensions in the lead-up to the country’s 2027 elections. The Labour Party Caucus in the House of Representatives condemned Okpebholo’s remarks—reportedly questioning Obi’s safety in Edo State without prior gubernatorial approval—as “unconstitutional” and “anti-democratic” in a strongly worded statement issued Tuesday.
Led by caucus chair Afam Victor Ogene, legislators denounced the comments made during a weekend political event, arguing they risk normalizing violence in Nigeria’s already volatile electoral landscape. “No one deserves harm for their political beliefs,” the statement read, warning that such rhetoric contradicts constitutional principles of free movement and political association. The lawmakers highlighted Obi’s national philanthropic work, including cross-partisan initiatives in education and poverty alleviation, as evidence of his nonviolent approach to public service.
The controversy stems from Okpebholo’s address at a defection rally for Marcus Onobun, a federal legislator who recently joined the governor’s All Progressives Congress (APC). Critics noted stark contrast between the governor’s welcoming stance toward Onobun and his earlier threat to demolish the lawmaker’s home over unproven allegations of harboring criminal elements. Labour Party representatives questioned whether the demolition order would now be revoked following Onobun’s party switch, framing it as part of a broader pattern of coercion.
This incident marks the second time in recent months that Labour leaders have accused APC governors of intimidation tactics against Obi, referencing similar allegations against Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia. The caucus called on President Bola Tinubu to restrain party colleagues, asserting that “scaremongering” undermines democratic norms. Security analysts note growing concerns about politically motivated violence ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 election cycle, with opposition figures increasingly reporting threats.
While Okpebholo’s office has yet to formally respond, the Labour statement emphasized constitutional safeguards for political activity, urging institutions to ensure candidate safety nationwide. The clash underscores deepening partisan divides in a country where the 2023 presidential election results remain contested in courts, with Obi’s legal challenge against Tinubu’s victory still pending. Observers warn such confrontations could further erode public trust in electoral processes if left unaddressed.
