Renowned human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) has demanded Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo immediately retract his recent threats against former presidential candidate Peter Obi, warning of imminent legal action if the governor fails to comply.
Governor’s Controversial Remarks
The crisis stems from Okpebholo’s comments at a political rally in Uromi, where he allegedly declared:
“There’s a new sheriff in town. [Obi] cannot just come into Edo without informing me. His security will not be guaranteed. If anything happens to him here, he will have himself to blame. I’m not joking.”
Falana’s Legal Counter
In a strongly worded statement, Falana condemned the governor’s words as unconstitutional and reckless, citing:
Section 33 of the 1999 Constitution (right to life)
Article 4 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights
Section 14(2)(b) (government’s duty to ensure citizen security)
He demanded Governor Okpebholo:
Publicly withdraw the threat
Apologize to Peter Obi
Guarantee Obi’s safety in Edo State
Legal Consequences Loom
Falana warned that if the governor refuses to comply, Obi should file a fundamental rights enforcement suit at the Federal High Court in Benin. He stressed the urgency, citing Nigeria’s troubling record of mob violence and extrajudicial killings.
Broader Implications
The threat has sparked outrage, raising concerns about:
Politically motivated intimidation Erosion of free movement rights Safety of opposition figures in Nigeria
What’s Next?
All eyes are on Governor Okpebholo to see if he will retract his statement or face a high-profile legal battle with Falana and Obi.