Ismail Abdulazeez Mantu Reporting
The opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC) has issued a scathing rebuke of a controversial statement credited to Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebolo, in which he allegedly declared former Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, persona non grata in the state.
In a statement made available to Truth Live News Saturday, ADC National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, described the governor’s comments as “disgraceful and undemocratic,” stressing that no Nigerian citizen requires permission from any state governor to move freely within the country.
“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 stated.
The party’s spokesman further slammed the governor’s alleged outburst as a reflection of political insecurity, pointing out that “when a governor panics over courtesy visits and modest donations, it is a clear sign that something is deeply wrong somewhere.”
According to the ADC, Governor Okpebolo’s reaction to Obi’s recent visit to Edo State, where the former Anambra governor reportedly met supporters and made charitable contributions, exposes a fear of genuine leadership and popular goodwill.
“True leaders who have served their people well are not rattled when others receive applause,” Abdullahi added. “Instead, they are confident enough to stand tall, knowing their legacy speaks for them. Perhaps the love and support shown to Obi serve as a mirror Governor Okpebolo finds hard to face.”
The backlash follows a report by Truth Live News earlier this week detailing Governor Okpebolo’s warning for Mr. Obi to “stay away” from the state, remarks that have since ignited outrage across social media platforms and drawn criticisms from civil society and opposition parties.