The Edo State Government has stated that it has noted with concern the allegation by former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party (LP) figure, Peter Obi, claiming that members of his political camp were attacked by government officials in Edo State.
The government categorically describes this allegation as false, malicious and a clear misrepresentation of the facts.
In a statement, Patrick Ebojele, the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to Governor Monday Okpebholo said: “We wish to state unequivocally that the Okpebholo administration is not, and will never be, in the business of attacking innocent Nigerians, regardless of their political affiliation.
“No directive was at anytime issued by the Governor or any organ of the Edo State Government to target members of any political party.
“These allegations lack credible evidence and appears calculated to mislead the public and create unnecessary political tension.”
The statement recalled the Governor’s earlier position regarding high-profile political visits to Edo State, where he made it clear that his comments were purely guided by security responsibility as the Chief Security Officer of the state, and not borne out of political hostility toward any individual or group.
Governor Okpebholo had consistently maintained that politically exposed persons are expected to notify relevant authorities ahead of major public engagements to enable adequate security coordination in the interest of public safety.
Going further, Ebojele said: “We view any attempt to twist the Governor’s security advisory into claims of intimidation or orchestrated attacks as unfortunate, misleading and politically motivated.
“For the avoidance of doubt, just yesterday, Monday, 23 February, a faction of the ADC led by former Chief Whip of the Senate, Roland Owie, were shut out of a meeting held at the residence of John Odigie-Oyegun due to internal crisis within the party and was only resolved following a detachment of armed police officers to restore peace.”
According to the statement,”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. It only suggests to us that Peter Obi is synonymous with violence and the state government will not condole such acts.
“The Edo State Government therefore urges political actors to verify facts before making public statements capable of overheating the polity. The administration remains firmly committed to protecting all residents and visitors while upholding the constitutional rights of Nigerians to lawful movement and association.”
The Edo State Government reiterated that its focus “remains on governance, public safety and economic development, and not political persecution.”
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