Politics

Law Firm Gives Obaseki 7 Days to Apologize

A legal firm, Festus Ogun Legal (FOLEGAL), has issued a seven-day ultimatum to Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, demanding a public apology and retraction of what it describes as unconstitutional threats made against Mr. Peter Obi, the Labour Party presidential candidate, and the people of Nigeria.

Governor Okpebholo had reportedly stated that Peter Obi "must not come to Edo without security clearance", warning that Obi's safety would not be guaranteed if he failed to obtain such clearance.

In a statement released through his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, on July 21, 2025, the governor reiterated his position, insisting that Obi must notify and seek security clearance from the state government before engaging in any public activity within Edo.

Legal Response: Threats Are Illegal and Unconstitutional

Quoting Section 41 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the letter states:

"Every citizen of Nigeria is entitled to move freely throughout Nigeria and to reside in any part thereof, and no citizen shall be expelled from or refused entry into Nigeria."

The law firm also cited the case of Faith Okafor v. Lagos State Government (2016) LPELR-41066 (CA), where the Court of Appeal held that no governor has the legal authority to curtail the movement of individuals without due process.

Firm Demands Apology and Legal Redress. Describing the governor's remarks as "preposterous" and a gross violation of Mr. Obi's rights, the firm asserted: "It is, in fact, a gross violation of Mr. Peter Obi's constitutionally guaranteed right to freedom of movement."

The firm went on to demand the following:

- An immediate public retraction of the unconstitutional threat.

A formal apology to Mr. Peter Obi and to the Nigerian people.

"Considering the foregoing, we respectfully request that you retract the unconstitutional threats and tender a public apology to Mr. Peter Obi and the good people of Nigeria," the letter read.

Lawsuit Looms if Ultimatum Is Ignored FOLEGAL warned that failure to comply within seven days of receiving the letter would result in legal action.

"In the unlikely event that our request is not met within the timeframe, we may be compelled to institute a fundamental rights enforcement lawsuit against you, in the interest of our constitutional democracy and the rule of law."