The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has taken a swipe at Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, for his controversial remark declaring former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, persona non grata in the state.
In a statement posted on Saturday via 𝕏 (formerly Twitter), the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, described the governor’s statement as “disgraceful and undemocratic.”
Abdullahi emphasised that Peter Obi, as a Nigerian citizen, does not require any form of permission or security clearance 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 wrote.
He further stated that such a remark reflects poorly on the governor’s understanding of constitutional rights and the principles of democracy.
The ADC spokesman also chided Governor Okpebholo for his reaction to Obi’s recent visit and philanthropic gestures in the state.
“When a governor panics over courtesy visits and modest donations, it is a clear sign that something is deeply wrong somewhere,” Abdullahi said.
He argued that true leadership is about serving the people, not fearing others’ popularity or applause.
Abdullahi suggested that the warm reception given to Peter Obi in Edo State could be a reflection of the people’s desire for the kind of leadership Obi represents.
“Leaders who have truly served their people have no reason to feel threatened by others receiving public applause. What the support for Obi shows is what the people yearn for, purposeful and transparent leadership,” he said.
Naijaonpoint recalls that Governor Okpebholo warned Peter Obi against visiting Edo State without prior security clearance, following Obi’s recent engagements and donations in the state.