The Edo State Government has rejected allegations by former Anambra State governor and Labour Party figure, Peter Obi, that members of his political camp were attacked by government officials in the state.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Dr Patrick Ebojele, described the claim as “false, malicious and a clear misrepresentation of the facts.”
The government stated unequivocally that no directive was issued by the governor or any organ of the Edo State Government to target members of any political party.
“The Okpebholo administration is not, and will never be, in the business of attacking innocent Nigerians, regardless of their political affiliation,” the statement read.
According to the government, the allegations lack credible evidence and appear calculated to mislead the public and create unnecessary political tension.
The statement recalled the governor’s earlier remarks concerning high-profile political visits to the state, insisting that his comments were guided purely by security considerations as Chief Security Officer of Edo State.
Governor Okpebholo, the government noted, had maintained that politically exposed persons are expected to notify relevant authorities ahead of major public engagements to enable adequate security coordination.
“We view any attempt to twist the Governor’s security advisory into claims of intimidation or orchestrated attacks as unfortunate, misleading and politically motivated,” the statement added.
The government further referenced an incident on Monday, February 23, involving a faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) allegedly led by former Senate Chief Whip, Roland Owie, who were reportedly shut out of a meeting held at the residence of former Edo governor, John Odigie-Oyegun.
According to the statement, the situation stemmed from internal disagreements within the party and was resolved after armed police officers were deployed to restore calm.
“It is now evident that the ADC and by extension Peter Obi is mischievous and making efforts to cast aspersion on the good things that this administration is doing,” the government said, adding that it would not condone acts capable of inciting violence.
The Edo State Government urged political actors to verify facts before making public statements capable of overheating the polity.
It reiterated its commitment to governance, public safety, and economic development, stressing that it remains focused on protecting all residents and visitors while upholding constitutional rights to lawful movement and association.
Naija News reports that Peter Obi, a former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), John Odigie-Oyegun, and other ADC chieftains were attacked by suspected thugs in Edo State.
According to him, the attack occurred during the formal defection of Olumide Akpata, the Labour Party’s governorship candidate in the last Edo election, into the ADC.
Armed men reportedly trailed the party leaders from the ADC Secretariat to the residence of Oyegun and opened fire on the gate of the house and cars parked nearby….See More
Leave a Reply