Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has strongly condemned a threat made by Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, against Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, stating that any harm aimed at Obi is an attack on all Nigerians who cherish democracy and peace.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, Atiku declared:
“Let it be known that a threat against Peter Obi or any of us is a threat against ALL of us!”
Atiku’s statement follows the circulation of a viral video showing Governor Okpebholo making incendiary remarks against Peter Obi. In the video, reportedly recorded during the defection of a federal lawmaker to the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Edo governor was heard saying:
“His [Obi’s] safety won’t be guaranteed… If anything happens to him, he’ll have to face it… I’m now in charge here.”
The statement has since triggered widespread outrage, with many calling it dangerous, undemocratic, and inciting.
Political Fallout
Atiku’s intervention is viewed as a significant show of solidarity with Peter Obi, despite political differences between them. Both were presidential contenders in the 2023 elections, with Atiku representing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Obi flying the flag for the Labour Party.
Observers say Atiku’s response reinforces the message that political rivalry should never give way to threats or violence.
Calls for Accountability
Civil society groups and political analysts have condemned Governor Okpebholo’s comments, urging security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to take note ahead of the Edo 2024 governorship election.
There are growing calls for the governor to retract his statement and issue an apology, as many view his remarks as not only irresponsible but potentially inciting political violence.
As tensions mount, the incident has become a flashpoint in the ongoing discourse about free movement, political tolerance, and the state of democracy in Nigeria.
