The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned the statement credited to Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebolo, declaring former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, persona non grata in the state.
In a post on Saturday via X, the ADC’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, described the governor’s remarks as “disgraceful and undemocratic.”
He stated that Obi, as a Nigerian citizen, does not require the governor’s permission to visit any part of the country, including Edo State.
“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 said.
He further criticised Governor Okpebolo’s reaction to Obi’s visit and donations in the state, describing it as a sign of insecurity.
“When a governor panics over courtesy visits and modest donations, it is a clear sign that something is deeply wrong somewhere,” he added.
The ADC spokesman said true leaders who have served their people well would not be troubled by others receiving public applause. He suggested that the support shown to Obi may serve as a reminder to the governor of the leadership qualities people expect.
DAILY POST reported that Governor Okpebolo had earlier warned Obi to stay away from Edo State, a statement that has sparked widespread criticism on social media.