Peter Obi Must Get Approval to Visit Edo – APC Chairman
- Admin
- Jul 21
- 2 min read
The political climate in Edo State has taken a new turn following comments by the All Progressives Congress (APC) Chairman, Jarret Tenebe, reinforcing a controversial statement made by Governor Monday Okpebholo concerning Labour Party’s Peter Obi.
During a recent press briefing in Benin City, Tenebe publicly backed Governor Okpebholo’s earlier position that Peter Obi, the former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, must seek approval from the state government before visiting Edo. The governor had first made this declaration during a political rally while receiving defectors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo Central.
Tenebe escalated the tension by citing “widespread animosity” towards Obi among Edo residents as justification for such a requirement. He shockingly admitted to personally harboring such sentiments, stating:
“There have been a lot of criticisms about the governor's statement that Peter Obi must take permission before visiting Edo. I support the governor fully. The kind of hatred people have for Peter Obi in this state, including myself, justifies that stance. When people like him come here, chaos sometimes follows. The governor must be informed beforehand so people like us can be sent on errands and cleared out of the way.”
Tenebe's statements have sparked significant backlash online and offline, with many Nigerians condemning what they see as an undemocratic and inflammatory posture. Critics argue that such rhetoric undermines the principles of free movement, political plurality, and peaceful engagement in a democratic society.
In what appeared to be a further provocation, Tenebe also took aim at members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), dismissing their political relevance in the state.
“I want to send a message to those claiming to be ADC in Edo State: they should be very careful. We only have PDP left to contend with here not ADC. If you want to align with ADC, then you’ll have to leave the state for us.”
The comments by both Governor Okpebholo and Chairman Tenebe have triggered concerns about political intolerance and the erosion of civil liberties. Political observers warn that such declarations could stoke unnecessary political tension, especially as Edo prepares for upcoming elections.
Civil society organizations, human rights advocates, and opposition parties have called for restraint, reminding the ruling APC in Edo that Nigeria’s constitution guarantees freedom of movement and association to all citizens, regardless of political affiliation.
Many also questioned the appropriateness of state officials using inflammatory language, which could incite division or violence among supporters.
As Nigeria continues to navigate a complex political landscape post-2023 elections, comments like those made by Tenebe raise important questions about the maturity of the country’s democratic institutions. It is a reminder that political leadership demands responsibility, respect for dissenting voices, and adherence to the rule of law.
Comments