Lawyers affiliated with the Obident Lawyers Forum have filed a lawsuit seeking increased security protection for Peter Obi and other candidates participating in Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election.
The action was instituted against President Bola Tinubu, the Attorney General of the Federation, Inspector General of Police, Director General of the Department of State Services, Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo.
The applicants, Kingdom Okere and Joseph Ameh, filed the case on behalf of the Obident Lawyers Forum and the Incorporated Trustees of Rights for All International.
They are asking the court to direct federal security agencies to provide adequate personnel and intelligence protection for Obi and other presidential candidates.
The suit followed comments attributed to Obi during a podcast in which he reportedly expressed concern that he might not be alive to participate in the election.
It also referenced remarks attributed to Okpebholo warning Obi against visiting Edo State without obtaining permission and suggesting that his security could not be guaranteed.
The applicants argued that Obi possesses constitutional rights to life, freedom of movement and participation in lawful political activities without intimidation, harassment or threats.
They maintained that no government official or institution has the authority to prevent a Nigerian citizen from entering or leaving any part of the country for lawful purposes.
The lawyers are seeking a declaration that Obi must not be subjected to politically motivated coercion, threats, assault or discrimination based on his political views, ethnicity or religion.
They also want the court to affirm that the President has a constitutional responsibility to protect lives and property and to direct security agencies to protect all presidential candidates.
The suit was filed on July 27.
No date has been fixed for hearing.
