The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has condemned what it described as a reckless and undemocratic threat issued by Governor Monday Okpebholo against Mr. Albert Obazee, a social media influencer, who is notable for criticizing Okpebholo and APC
A statement issued by Chris Nehihkare, Acting Publicity Secretary of Edo PDP criticized Governor Okpebholo for remarks made during a recent live broadcast, in which he allegedly threatened to imprison Obazee should he return to Nigeria.
The party described the governor’s comments as “beneath the office of a governor,” labeling them a sign of “authoritarianism, desperation, and an alarming abuse of power.”
“This statement, made during a live broadcast, is not only beneath the office of a governor but reeks of authoritarianism, desperation, and an alarming abuse of power,” the PDP said.
“In a democracy, dissent is not only expected — it is necessary. No public official, however powerful he thinks he is, has the right to threaten a private citizen for expressing an opinion or taking a contrary political stance.”
The PDP further accused Governor Okpebholo of lacking the temperament and democratic ethos required for high office.
“It is said that ‘he who can’t take the heat should stay out of the kitchen.’ Clearly, Governor Okpebholo lacks democratic ethos required for high office,” the statement read.
The opposition party urged the governor to focus on the pressing challenges confronting Edo State rather than resort to threats and intimidation of perceived opponents. Among the issues listed were rising insecurity, deteriorating infrastructure, increasing state debt, unemployment, and eroding investor confidence.
“Rather than attempt to intimidate voices of opposition or concern himself with who is flying into the country, we urge the governor to focus on governance and address the pressing issues facing Edo people — insecurity, decaying infrastructure, ballooning debts, rising unemployment, and dwindling investor confidence,” the PDP said.
The statement concluded with a warning that such behavior would not shield the governor from accountability.
“The PDP warns that no amount of threats, bravado, or political theatrics will shield Senator Okpebholo from the consequences of his ill-advised decisions and undemocratic conduct. Edo State belongs to us all, and no one — not even a governor — has the right to turn it into a personal fiefdom or political war zone.”
The party reaffirmed its solidarity with Mr. Obazee and others who, according to the statement, have come under attack for exercising their democratic rights.
“We stand with Mr. Albert Obazee and every other citizen whose democratic rights are under attack by this administration. The law must protect the people — not serve as a weapon of political vendetta,” the statement concluded.
