ADC Spokesperson Rebukes Edo Governor Okpebolo, Says Peter Obi Doesn’t Need His Clearance to Visit Nigerians

ADC Spokesperson Rebukes Edo Governor Okpebolo, Says Peter Obi Doesn’t Need His Clearance to Visit Nigerians

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticized Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebolo, over his recent remarks suggesting that former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, is unwelcome in Edo State.

In a post on his verified X account (formerly Twitter), the Interim Spokesperson of the ADC, Bolaji Abdullahi, described the governor’s comments as “disgraceful” and “undemocratic.”

“Governor Monday Okpebolo’s statement declaring @PeterObi persona non grata in Edo State is as disgraceful as it is undemocratic,” Abdullahi wrote. “Edo State is a Nigerian state. Peter Obi is a free citizen and does not need the governor’s clearance to visit Nigerians in their own country.”

The ADC spokesman further accused Governor Okpebolo of displaying signs of insecurity, noting that such reactions to simple courtesy visits and public appreciation reveal deeper issues in governance.

“The Governor’s statement betrays deep insecurity. When a Governor panics over courtesy visits and modest donations, it is a clear sign that something is deeply wrong somewhere,” he added.

Abdullahi went on to suggest that the public support Peter Obi continues to receive should serve as a reminder to other political leaders about the expectations of the electorate.

“Leaders who have served the people well will not be bothered when others receive applause. Perhaps, the people celebrating PO are simply reminding the Edo State Governor the kind of leader he should be,” he concluded.

Governor Okpebolo has come under fire from multiple quarters after reportedly warning Peter Obi not to visit Edo State again, sparking backlash from opposition parties and civil society groups who see the comment as an affront to Nigeria’s democratic principles and freedom of movement.