bloomshorts Atiku Stands With Obi Amid Security Clearance Controversy
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has made a bold statement, asserting that any threat directed at Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, is tantamount to a threat against all Nigerians. This declaration comes in the wake of a heated debate sparked by Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo’s remarks regarding Obi’s visit to the state without prior security clearance.
The Root of the Controversy
The dispute originated from Obi’s visit to Benin City, where he donated ₦15 million to the School of Nursing Sciences at St. Philomena’s Hospital. Governor Okpebholo later expressed concerns over the timing of Obi’s visit, linking it to a surge in insecurity within the state, particularly attacks on religious figures. The governor insisted that high-profile individuals should seek security clearance before public engagements in Edo State.
Reactions and Repercussions
The governor’s statement has drawn criticism from various quarters, including the Labour Party caucus in the Senate and human rights lawyer Femi Falana, who called for a retraction and public apology. Meanwhile, Peter Obi has remained silent on the issue, focusing instead on advocating for the resolution of a crisis affecting dental students at the University of Calabar.
A Unified Front
Atiku’s comments also highlight the recent formation of a coalition by prominent political figures, including Obi, to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the upcoming 2027 elections under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) banner.
