The Edo State Government has dismissed as false and malicious the allegation by former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential aspirant, Peter Obi, that members of his political camp were attacked by government officials in the state.
It maintained that the account presented by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) amounted to a distortion of the actual events.
In a statement released on Tuesday by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, the government said, “The Edo State Government has noted with concern the allegation by former Anambra State governor and Labour Party figure, Peter Obi, claiming that members of his political camp were attacked by government officials in Edo State.
“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 any time 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 appear calculated to mislead the public and create unnecessary political tension.”
The statement referenced the governor’s earlier remarks concerning visits by high-profile political figures, clarifying that his comments were strictly related to his constitutional duty as Chief Security Officer of the state and not motivated by partisan considerations.
It further stated that the governor has consistently emphasised the need for politically exposed persons to inform relevant authorities before major public engagements to ensure proper security coordination and public safety.
The statement continued, “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, February 23, a faction of the ADC led by former Chief Whip of the Senate, Roland Owie, was shut out of a meeting held at the residence of John Odigie-Oyegun due to an internal crisis within the party, which was only resolved following the intervention of armed police officers to restore peace.
“It is now evident that the ADC and, by extension, Peter Obi are being mischievous and making efforts to cast aspersions on the good work this administration is doing. It only suggests to us that Peter Obi is synonymous with violence, and the state government will not condone 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 government reiterates that its focus remains on governance, public safety and economic development, and not political persecution.”
