Abuja, Nigeria – Hon. Obi Aguocha, the federal lawmaker representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North and South Federal Constituency, has strongly condemned recent statements made by Governor Okpebholo of Edo State regarding Labour Party stalwart and former presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi. Speaking in a live interview on Arise Television, Aguocha characterized the governor’s comments as a “reckless incitement to violence” and a significant threat to Nigeria’s delicate democratic framework.
Call for Accountability Amidst “Veiled Threat”
Governor Okpebholo had reportedly warned Peter Obi to seek security clearance before entering Edo State, a statement Aguocha described as deeply concerning. “It’s quite unfortunate that a sitting governor would make such a statement in a campaign-style event without presenting credible evidence,” Aguocha asserted. “He has not provided a police report. He has not given any medical evidence about the alleged stampede. Yet, he went ahead to say that ‘whatever Peter Obi sees in Edo, he will get.’ That, to me, is a veiled call for violence, a dangerous incitement to assassination.”
While acknowledging reports of potential casualties at a political event, Hon. Aguocha emphasized that unsubstantiated claims should not be weaponized to threaten political adversaries. “Even if there were casualties, and we truly sympathize with the victims and their families, it does not justify such inflammatory rhetoric,” he stated. “In a democratic society, leaders must be held accountable for their words. That governor must be called to order.”
Allegations of Abuse of Office and Political Intimidation
The federal lawmaker accused Governor Okpebholo of leveraging his position to fuel political discord and endanger a prominent national figure like Peter Obi. “Telling your supporters that Obi must inform you before coming to Edo, and warning that he will face consequences if he doesn’t, is incitement. That is not leadership; it is an abuse of office and a threat to national unity,” Aguocha declared.
He further suggested that the remarks against Peter Obi are part of a broader pattern of hostility emanating from certain All Progressives Congress (APC)-led states. Referencing similar incidents involving other state governors, Aguocha accused the ruling party of attempting to “militarize politics” and undermine Obi’s considerable popularity. “We saw something similar in Benue State. There’s a pattern here, APC state governors behaving more like security threats than security officers,” he observed, aligning with Dr. Sam Amadi’s view that such actions constitute intimidation rather than democracy.
Peter Obi Praised for Maturity Amidst Provocations
Despite what he described as provocations, Aguocha commended Peter Obi for his consistent and mature approach to public discourse, noting that Obi has consistently refrained from personal attacks or hate speech. “Peter Obi has always challenged the Tinubu administration based on policy, not personality. Unlike what we’re seeing from APC’s side; hateful remarks, personal attacks, and intimidation. Obi represents policy alternatives and the aspirations of millions,” Aguocha affirmed.
When questioned about advice for Peter Obi in light of these attacks, Aguocha remained resolute. “Nothing,” he responded. “The governor is inconsequential. He has no such power. Peter Obi remains a free citizen of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Whether he is contesting for office or not, he has a constitutional right to travel, to speak, and to assemble freely.”
Call for Evidence and Transparency
Hon. Aguocha concluded by challenging the Edo State government to produce concrete evidence of the alleged casualties rather than exploiting emotions for political gain. “If the government is sincere, let them publish the police reports, the DSS briefings, and medical records relating to the alleged deaths. Until then, this looks like pure political intimidation targeted at a man who won Edo State in 2023 and still enjoys massive grassroots support.”
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