The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has strongly criticized Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State for what it described as a veiled threat against former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi.
Governor Okpebholo had issued a controversial warning to Obi, cautioning him against visiting the state without prior notice or approval. His remarks have sparked nationwide concern, especially after he stated, “If anything happens to him here, he will have himself to blame. I’m not joking.”
The CUPP described the governor’s words as disturbing and unconstitutional, arguing that such rhetoric undermines the democratic values of freedom of movement and expression.
This is not the first time Obi has received such warnings from states governed by the All Progressives Congress (APC). A similar caution came from Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia during an earlier visit.
Okpebholo accused Obi of sparking unrest in Benin City during a past visit where he donated ₦15 million to a nursing school. The governor linked that visit to violent incidents in the city — a claim CUPP says is baseless and dangerous.
In a statement signed by Chief Peter Ameh, the group’s National Publicity Secretary, CUPP condemned the governor’s remarks, saying:
“Governor Okpebholo’s recorded comments warning Obi not to ‘dare’ enter Edo State and suggesting his safety would not be guaranteed, amounts to a veiled death threat. It is an attack on a citizen exercising his constitutional right.”
The coalition said Obi’s only “offense” was traveling around the country to support hospitals, schools, displaced persons, and humanitarian causes — efforts that should be applauded, not vilified.
“Should a governor be threatened by acts of charity?” CUPP asked.
They urged Nigerians — from political leaders to civil society and rights advocates — to speak up against what they called an unacceptable show of political intimidation and thuggery.
“This is a direct assault on Nigeria’s democracy. It violates Peter Obi’s right to freedom of movement and association. Such behavior has no place in responsible governance,” the statement continued.
CUPP called on Nigerians to remain vigilant and protect their constitutional rights, warning that silence in the face of intimidation only emboldens tyranny.
“No one, regardless of their office, should be allowed to trample on the rights of citizens. Edo State, and indeed Nigeria, deserves better than this disgraceful display of leadership.”
