APC Supporter Calls for Arrest of Peter Obi After Edo Visit, Triggers Outrage Over Threatening Remarks
A supporter of Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Engr. Tom Steve, has publicly called for the arrest and interrogation of former Anambra State governor and opposition figure, Peter Obi, following Obi’s recent visit to Edo State amid heightened political tension.
Steve, who identifies as a supporter of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, made the demand through a series of posts on his verified X account. The posts followed reports of an alleged att@ck during Obi’s visit to Edo State.
In one post, Steve claimed that Obi had previously been warned not to enter Edo State without security clearance. He described the reported incident as the outcome of what he called “calculated defiance,” and said he had notified the Edo State Government to transmit a petition to the Inspector General of Police seeking Obi’s arrest and interrogation.
Steve further argued that a prior directive issued by Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, requiring Obi to seek clearance before visiting the state, was lawful. According to him, ignoring the directive amounted to provocation and a challenge to constitutional authority. He stated that no individual, regardless of political status, should be above the law.
Earlier posts by Steve reacting to the alleged Edo incident drew widespread condemnation after he used inflammatory language suggesting that Obi was fortunate to have survived. He also referenced Obi’s possible visit to Rivers State in remarks widely interpreted as threatening, prompting backlash from opposition supporters and civil society voices who described the language as reckless and inciting.
Beyond the security controversy, Steve criticised Obi’s political history, accusing him of political opportunism and contrasting his record with that of Wike, whom he praised for remaining within the Peoples Democratic Party during internal crises. He concluded his commentary with prayers for Tinubu, Wike, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Nigeria, while asserting that Obi would not become president.
The renewed controversy traces back to earlier remarks by Governor Okpebholo, who had warned months ago that Obi’s safety could not be guaranteed if he entered Edo State without notifying the state government. Those comments were criticised at the time by opposition figures and civil society groups, who argued that freedom of movement and political association are constitutionally protected rights.
Despite the warnings, Obi has continued nationwide engagements as a leading opposition voice. As of publication, there has been no official confirmation from security agencies regarding any petition, arrest order, or investigation related to the statements made online.
The developments were first widely reported by Sahara Reporters and have since intensified debate over political tolerance, security directives, and the limits of free expression in Nigeria’s charged political climate.
