Femi Falana Calls for Immediate Legal Action over Death Threat Issued to Peter Obi by Governor Okpebholo

 

Renowned legal luminary and human rights advocate, Femi Falana (SAN), has strongly advised Peter Obi, former Governor of Anambra State and key figure in the Labour Party, to seek urgent legal intervention following a disturbing threat allegedly issued by the newly elected Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo.

The incident, which has sparked national outcry, stems from a widely circulated video in which Governor Okpebholo issued a direct warning to Mr Obi, saying his safety would not be guaranteed if he visited Edo State without prior notice or approval. The comment was made in Pidgin English during a public appearance, raising serious concerns over the governor's intentions and the rule of law in the state.

Femi Falana, reacting through an official statement released on Sunday, described the threat as not only unconstitutional but also a direct violation of Peter Obi’s fundamental right to life. He cited relevant legal frameworks, including the Nigerian Constitution and the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights, which clearly protect every citizen's right to life and security.

According to Falana, the gravity of the threat demands immediate legal steps. He recommended that Mr Obi file a case at the Federal High Court in the Benin Judicial Division to enforce his constitutional right to life. "Mr Peter Obi should act with utmost urgency in view of the prevalence of mob justice and other forms of extrajudicial killings in the country," Falana stated, emphasizing the current volatile security situation in Nigeria.

Governor Okpebholo, who has been in the news for his aggressive stance since assuming office, reportedly made the contentious statement while referencing a recent visit by Mr Obi to Edo State. During that visit, Obi made a donation of N15 million to an undisclosed cause. The governor claimed that this visit coincided with a violent incident in which three individuals lost their lives. Using that as justification, he warned that Obi should not return to Edo State without clearing it with his office, declaring that whatever happens to Obi in such a scenario would be his own responsibility.

These remarks, recorded and widely shared on social media platforms, have drawn strong criticism from legal professionals, civil society, and political observers. The statement was particularly alarming given Nigeria’s history of politically motivated violence and threats against opposition figures.

Falana underscored the constitutional provisions that explicitly place the responsibility for citizens' security on the government. Citing Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution, he reminded the public that "the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government." He called on Governor Okpebholo to not only retract his comments but also to issue a public apology to Mr Obi, alongside assurances of his safety within the state.

Observers have raised concerns over the escalating hostility in Nigeria’s political landscape, where threats and intimidation are increasingly used as tools against political opponents. The incident is being viewed by many as part of a broader pattern of harassment against figures seen as opponents of the political establishment in certain regions.

Peter Obi, who ran for President in the 2023 elections under the Labour Party banner, continues to maintain a strong support base across Nigeria, especially among youth and reform-minded voters. His visits to various states are often greeted with enthusiasm, and any threats to his safety are bound to inflame public sentiment.

Legal analysts argue that the courts are now the appropriate venue to address the matter and restore public confidence in the rule of law. They believe that failure to act decisively may embolden other political figures to adopt similar tactics, further weakening the nation’s democratic institutions.

Though the Edo State Government has not issued an official response to Falana’s statement as of the time of this report, the pressure is mounting for Governor Okpebholo to clarify his position, or risk facing legal consequences.

Femi Falana’s call for swift legal redress serves not only as a defense of Peter Obi’s rights but also as a message to all Nigerians that no individual, regardless of their office, is above the law. The public now watches closely as this legal and political drama unfolds, hoping that justice will be served and the sanctity of human rights upheld.