According to a report by Vanguard News, on Saturday, March 07, 2026, Peter Obi, the former governor of Anambra State and 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, LP, has reiterated his right to move freely across Nigeria, emphasizing that no individual or group has a monopoly on violence.
He made the statement while explaining his recent visit to Rivers State, which came despite warnings that he should not enter the state. Obi stressed that his constitutional rights as a citizen cannot be denied by anyone.
The former presidential candidate explained that he traveled to Rivers State to attend an earlier invitation, which he considered important to honor.
He described the warnings and threats he received as insufficient to deter him from fulfilling his commitment.
According to him, respecting invitations and engagements is part of his duty as a citizen and public figure, regardless of political tension.
Obi highlighted that incidents of violence or intimidation cannot be used as tools to restrict movement within the country.
He expressed concern over attempts by some groups to use force as a way to control citizens’ actions, pointing out that such measures are unconstitutional.
The former governor made it clear that Nigerians must exercise their rights without fear of reprisal or threats.
In addressing the broader implications of his visit, Obi noted that citizens should be able to engage in social, political, and economic activities without interference.
He said that the idea of any person or group holding a monopoly over the use of force contradicts democratic principles.
This perspective underlines the importance of respecting individual freedoms in a nation where citizens are entitled to move freely.
He further explained that his visit to Rivers State was not politically motivated but aimed at fostering dialogue and participation in civic matters.
Obi stressed that ensuring citizens’ engagement in public affairs requires courage and adherence to the rule of law.
He urged political actors to refrain from intimidation tactics that undermine democratic norms.
Obi also addressed concerns arising from a previous incident in Benin, which some observers believed could have discouraged his travels.
He insisted that such occurrences would not influence his movements or commitments.
The former governor maintained that Nigerians should be empowered to make choices and exercise their rights without fear of violence.
“I am a Nigerian, and I am free to go to any part of this country. It is a constitutional right that nobody can take away from me. But let me make it clear, nobody has a monopoly of violence,” he said.
Obi’s statement reinforces his position that freedom of movement is fundamental and cannot be curtailed by threats or intimidation.See_More…