Kenneth Okonkwo blasts Edo Governor over alleged threats to Peter Obi

Former Labour Party presidential campaign spokesperson Kenneth Okonkwo has condemned remarks allegedly made by Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, threatening the safety of former presidential candidate Peter Obi.

In a fiery interview, Okonkwo described the governor’s alleged statement—that Obi must seek his permission before visiting Edo State or risk his security, as “an infringement on Peter Obi’s constitutional rights” and “a dangerous display of tribal bias.”

“It is clearly an act of tribalism,” Okonkwo said. “The idea that Peter Obi, a prominent Nigerian and citizen, would be threatened simply because he is Igbo is not only wrong, but is insulting.”

He added that the governor’s comments were emboldened by the political immunity he enjoys, suggesting such threats would never be issued to a prominent leader from the North or Southwest. “Would he dare say the same to a leader from the North or the Southwest? Of course not,” he said. “It is a criminal offence to threaten the rights and safety of any Nigerian, regardless of political differences.”

Defending Obi’s independent political style, Okonkwo said, “Peter does things his own way, that is who he is. If Monday doesn’t like his approach or his acts of philanthropy, that’s his personal issue. But he has no right to threaten him.”

When asked about similar comments from APC Edo State Chairman Jarrett Tenebe, who also backed restrictions on Obi’s visits, Okonkwo was blunt: “I don’t give credence to people like that. I don’t make statements on a failed party.”

He called on Governor Okpebholo to retract his words and offer an apology. “If he doesn’t apologise to Peter Obi, I’ll be on his case,” he warned.

Referring to Obi as “my brother,” Okonkwo urged him not to stay silent in the face of provocation. “Peter needs to step up,” he said. “If anyone gives him one, he should give them two. That’s how you deal with injustice.”

The remarks have added fuel to political tensions in Edo State, as citizens and political observers await further developments.