Edo Commissioner Declares: “Peter Obi Is the Least of Our Worries” Amid Rising Political Tensions
The political atmosphere in Edo State has heated up after the Edo State Commissioner for Information declared that Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, is “the least of our worries.” This controversial remark has fueled widespread condemnation across Nigeria, with many seeing it as a veiled attack on Obi and the Labour Party ahead of the 2026 Edo Governorship Election.
The commissioner’s statement came while defending Governor Monday Okpebholo’s earlier warning that Peter Obi should not visit Edo State without first informing the government. Governor Okpebholo had claimed that Obi’s recent ₦15 million donation to St. Philomena Hospital in Benin City allegedly triggered unrest that led to three deaths. The governor controversially stated that Obi’s security could not be guaranteed if he visits the state unannounced.
In response to growing criticism, the Edo Commissioner for Information said:
“Peter Obi is the least of our worries right now. Edo State is focused on addressing security, infrastructure, and governance issues, not the political tourism of an ex-candidate.”
Civil Society, Labour Party, and Nigerians React
Civil society organizations (CSOs), Labour Party lawmakers, and political observers have condemned the Edo State Government’s stance, calling it reckless, undemocratic, and unconstitutional.
The Labour Party in particular described the commissioner’s comments and the governor’s threats as “executive rascality” and demanded a public apology. Speaking to journalists in Abuja, a Labour Party senator said:
“This is a direct assault on Nigeria’s democracy and a violation of Peter Obi’s constitutional right to free movement.”
Civil rights groups warned that such statements from government officials could embolden political thugs and increase violence ahead of the 2026 Edo governorship election.
Edo People Distance Themselves from Commissioner’s Remarks
Many Edo residents have distanced themselves from the commissioner’s comments, stressing that Edo people are known for their hospitality and do not support intimidation of political figures. Community leaders have called on Governor Okpebholo to focus on governance rather than stirring political tensions.
What This Means for Peter Obi and Nigerian Politics
Analysts suggest that this controversy is a sign of growing fear within the ruling APC over Peter Obi’s popularity and the Labour Party’s rising influence in Edo State. There are also talks that Obi’s legal team may approach the courts to seek protection for his rights to move freely within Nigeria.
So far, Peter Obi has not issued an official response to these developments.
