Political activist and co-convener of the #BringBackOurGirls movement, Aisha Yesufu, has categorically denied allegations that former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, ordered the arrest of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, during Obi's tenure as governor.
Speaking on Monday during an appearance on Channels Television's Sunrise Daily program, Yesufu clarified that El-Rufai was actually detained by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), not on Peter Obi's directive as some have claimed.
Her statement comes in response to comments made by Edo State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Paul Ohonbamu, who referenced the alleged incident while defending Governor Monday Okpebholo's controversial warning to Peter Obi not to enter Edo State again.
"The governor said what he said very clearly, and that is a threat to life. Beyond that is the fact that the Edo State Government came out with a statement where they said he wasn't threatening him but that Obi needs to tell them when he is coming and also get security clearance," Yesufu explained.
The activist strongly criticized Governor Okpebholo's position, questioning his authority to restrict movement within the state. "I don't know what gives Governor Okpebholo the audacity that he can give security clearances for any Nigerian to be able to come to Edo State. Edo State is not his family estate. Yes, he currently might be the one governing the state, but he doesn't have the right to give anybody clearance to be anywhere," she asserted.
This controversy highlights growing tensions in Nigerian politics, particularly regarding freedom of movement for political figures across state lines. The exchange between Okpebholo's administration and Peter Obi has drawn significant attention from political observers nationwide.
The incident also comes amid broader discussions about political tolerance and democratic norms in Nigeria's evolving political landscape, with many commentators expressing concern about statements that could be interpreted as threats against opposition figures.
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