Governance and Developments
“Stay Away or Else!” – Gov. Okpebholo Sends Fiery Warning to Peter Obi
Benin City, Nigeria – July 18, 2025
In a shocking and politically charged outburst that has sent tremors through the nation’s political landscape, Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has issued a veiled but unmistakable threat to Labour Party leader and 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi.
In a viral video circulating across social media, the All Progressives Congress (APC) governor lashed out at Obi in what many have described as a blatant attempt to intimidate and suppress opposition voices in Edo State ahead of the upcoming gubernatorial elections.
“Peter Obi, I’m warning you, don’t bring your nonsense to Edo,” Okpebholo declared with thunder in his voice, eyes locked on the camera like a general addressing an enemy camp.
“We won’t fold our hands and watch you come here to cause confusion!”
The governor, flanked by party loyalists, accused Obi of “sneaking into” the state to stir up political instability, an accusation that critics have labeled as paranoid and authoritarian.
Although no direct mention of violence was made, the tone of the governor’s remarks dripped with menace, with many interpreting the statement as a threat to Peter Obi’s freedom of movement and right to associate.
A Threat to Democracy?
Political analysts and civil rights groups have condemned the statement, warning that such rhetoric from a sitting governor could embolden political thugs and incite violence.
“This is dangerous,” said Dr. Helen Asemota of the Centre for Democratic Integrity. “When a state governor uses threatening language against a former presidential candidate, it sends a chilling message to every Nigerian who believes in free expression and democratic engagement.”
Social media has erupted in protest, with hashtags like #HandsOffObi, #EdoNotAPCProperty, and #OkpebholoThreatensObi trending nationwide.
Obi’s Camp Responds
Although Mr. Peter Obi has yet to release an official statement, sources within the Labour Party say the former Anambra governor is “not rattled” and will not be bullied into silence.
“Edo is part of Nigeria. Obi has every right to campaign, associate, and speak with the people of Edo,” said a senior LP official. “This is 2025, not 1984. Nigerians will not sit back and watch dictatorship in disguise.”
Political Tensions Soar
The confrontation between Okpebholo and Obi signals a growing tension between the old political guard and the rising tide of citizen-powered opposition.
Observers say this incident could escalate if not swiftly addressed by national security agencies and INEC, especially as campaign season heats up.
Edo citizens, many of whom voted massively for Peter Obi in 2023, now watch with bated breath: Will the governor follow through on his threat, or will the backlash force him to retreat?
One thing is certain – Nigeria’s democracy just hit another boiling point.
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