By Tracy Ohovwore
A chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State, Ambassador Frankie Ehimuan Aire, has called on social media influencer Mr. Albert Obazee to desist from publishing materials capable of provoking negative sentiments against the Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo.
Aire, who said he has been monitoring Obazee’s activities, alleged that the influencer has released over 30 videos scandalizing the governor.
In a statement issued in Benin City over the weekend, Aire urged Obazee to put an end to what he described as a show of hatred for the governor.
He warned that Obazee’s actions, if left unchecked, could lead to a breach of peace in the state. Aire described Obazee as a “bitter, self-styled social media activist turned keyboard warrior” who now uses his UK base to promote hostility towards the Edo State Government and its people.
Citing one of the videos, Aire said Obazee, during a live broadcast, urged bus drivers in Benin to “stone the Governor” if the suspended PSR Task Force were to be reinstated. He stated that such remarks could incite violence and constitute a criminal offence both in Nigeria and the United Kingdom, where Obazee resides.
He noted that under the UK’s Criminal Act 2007 (Sections 44–46), it is a crime to encourage or assist offences committed abroad if they would be crimes in the UK. He also referenced the Malicious Communications Act 1988 and the Communications Act 2003 (Section 127), which prescribe stiff penalties for such conduct.
Aire further stated that even online broadcasts made from UK territory could lead to criminal prosecution if they incite violence, hatred, or harm. He emphasized that freedom of speech does not equate to a license to threaten lives or destabilize government structures.
“If your goal is to use incitement, drama and defamation as a fast-track to asylum, brace yourself,” he added.
