Former Anambra State Governor and presidential candidate Peter Obi has claimed that three state governors prevented him from visiting their states, describing the alleged actions as a violation of his constitutional right to freedom of movement.
Speaking during an interview with The Sun, Obi said the governors advised him against entering their states, citing security concerns and warning that his safety could not be guaranteed. However, he did not reveal the identities of the governors or the states involved.
According to Obi, the repeated warnings left him questioning whether Nigerians still enjoy unrestricted freedom of movement. He argued that no citizen should be discouraged from visiting any part of the country, especially for lawful engagements.
The former governor further alleged that he was informed his life would be at risk if he proceeded with the planned visits. He claimed the incidents were part of broader efforts to frustrate his political activities and limit his engagement with supporters across Nigeria.
Obi’s comments come as political activities begin to intensify ahead of Nigeria’s next general elections, with discussions around security, political rights, and democratic freedoms becoming increasingly prominent.
His allegations also recall an earlier incident in 2025, when Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo publicly cautioned Obi against visiting the state without appropriate security clearance.
As of the time of the report, none of the governors allegedly referenced by Obi had publicly responded to his claims. The allegations are likely to fuel fresh debate over political tolerance, constitutional rights, and the state of Nigeria’s democratic space as the country moves closer to another election cycle.
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