Monday Okpebholo Slammed as Police Ban Obi Rally in Kaduna
- Admin
- Jul 20, 2025
- 3 min read
The Nigerian political space is heating up once again, as Edo State’s new Governor, Monday Okpebholo, under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), finds himself at the center of national controversy. His recent comments perceived as a veiled threat against the supporters of Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, have triggered widespread criticism and condemnation.
Fueling the uproar further, the Kaduna State Police Command abruptly banned a planned rally organized by Obi’s supporters, citing “security concerns.” This sequence of events has left many Nigerians questioning the state of democratic freedom, freedom of assembly, and the growing use of state institutions to suppress dissent.
Monday Okpebholo assumed office as the Governor of Edo State under the APC banner following the 2025 governorship election. Known for his pro-establishment views and strong ties to party loyalists, Okpebholo has positioned himself as a key voice within the APC’s broader national strategy. However, his latest remarks appear to have struck the wrong chord, especially among young Nigerians and Labour Party sympathizers.
At a recent APC stakeholders’ meeting, Governor Okpebholo reportedly referred to Obi supporters, popularly known as “Obidients,” as a “threat to national cohesion” and warned that “we will not tolerate another wave of youth uprising disguised as democratic movements.”
Though he did not explicitly name Peter Obi or call for violence, many interpreted his comments as an open challenge to a growing movement that has consistently disrupted the political status quo since 2022. The “Obidient Movement,” largely youth-driven and digitally coordinated, represents a fresh political awakening that traditional power structures view as a threat.
Within days of Okpebholo's statement, the Kaduna State Police Command announced a ban on a scheduled rally by Obi’s supporters, citing security threats and “unavailable crowd control resources.” The ban has drawn sharp criticism from human rights activists, opposition politicians, and civil society groups.
Key Questions Raised:
Was the rally ban politically motivated?
Is the Nigerian state increasingly being used to silence the opposition?
Are citizens' constitutional rights to assembly being trampled?
For many, the answer is becoming clearer: the state machinery is being weaponized against dissenting voices.
In his typical composed demeanor, Peter Obi took to social media to condemn the developments without directly naming Okpebholo. He wrote:
“True democracy allows all citizens the right to gather, speak, and act for the future they believe in. Attempts to suppress such rights will only strengthen our resolve.”
Obi’s message was widely shared and applauded, especially among younger Nigerians who view him as a symbol of a new, more accountable governance era.
This incident is not isolated. Since the 2023 general elections, several pro-Obi events have faced last-minute police interventions, cancellations, or venue denials. From Lagos to Port Harcourt and now Kaduna, there’s a growing pattern of stifling opposition voices under the guise of security concerns.
Human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) noted:
“What we are witnessing is a slow but dangerous return to authoritarianism. Nigeria fought hard for its democracy, and we must not allow it to be hijacked by political bullies, no matter their rank.”
Social media exploded with hashtags like #FreeObidients, #OkpebholoMustApologize, and #LetThePeopleSpeak, trending across Twitter (X), Facebook, and TikTok. Protesters gathered in parts of Benin City and Abuja, holding placards with messages such as “Democracy is not dictatorship!” and “Stop suppressing the youth!”
Prominent journalists and opinion leaders also weighed in. Channels TV anchor Seun Okinbaloye said during a live broadcast:
“A governor’s role is to unite, not divide. What we heard from Governor Okpebholo is not only disappointing but dangerous in a democracy.”
Though the next general election is still over a year away, this moment may prove pivotal. The “Obidient” movement shows no signs of slowing, and the growing crackdown on its activities only adds to their momentum. Monday Okpebholo, seen by many as a rising APC star, may have just alienated a critical demographic—young voters.
Political analysts believe this could trigger a stronger youth voter turnout in 2027, potentially swinging the electoral balance.
The actions of Governor Monday Okpebholo and the Kaduna police have ignited a firestorm of debate about the health of Nigeria’s democracy. Are state actors becoming too comfortable with authoritarian tendencies? Will Nigeria continue down a path of political suppression, or will the people reclaim their democratic voice?
What remains clear is this: the Nigerian youth are watching and they will remember.
If you believe in the right to free speech, assembly, and a transparent democracy, now is the time to speak out. Share this article, use the hashtags, and hold your leaders accountable. Democracy dies in silence but it thrives in participation.
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