The Edo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has doubled down on its demand that Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, must obtain security clearance before visiting the state — a move that has sparked concerns over political freedoms and constitutional rights.

 

APC State Chairman, Jarrett Tenebe, voiced support for Governor Monday Okpebholo’s earlier statement, justifying the requirement on grounds of public safety. He claimed Obi’s previous visit to Edo allegedly resulted in unrest that led to the death of three individuals, fueling local apprehension.

 

“The governor was right to insist on security clearance for Peter Obi due to how people in the state perceive him, especially after three lives were reportedly lost during his last visit,” Tenebe stated.

 

He described the demand as a “necessary step” to reflect the concerns of Edo residents and to avoid any potential security breaches during high-profile visits.

 

The statement comes amid rising political tension between the Labour Party and APC, and it marks an unusual development in Nigeria’s political landscape, where political leaders traditionally enjoy freedom of movement under the Constitution.

 

Critics have described the move as a dangerous precedent that could be weaponized against opposition figures, while legal analysts argue that such a requirement may contradict Section 41 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees citizens the right to move freely within Nigeria.

 

The controversy further underscores the growing friction between rival parties in the post-2023 election environment, as debates over political legitimacy, security, and constitutional rights continue to shape the national conversation.