Echocho Denies Link To Dekina Violence

The senator representing Kogi East at the National Assembly, Isa Jibrin Echocho, has denied any link to a reported fracas in Ajiolo Ojajji, Dekina in Kogi State which was ascribed to him.

According to the senator, some mischief makers and political opponents are ascribing the incident to him and his supporters.

The senator while reacting in a statement issued by his media office yesterday said some persons were bent on tarnishing his reputation for political gains, adding that he had no thugs or killer squad as insinuated.

According to him, though his election was voided over “flimsy reasons”, he is sure to get victory at the Court of Appeal.

He said; “So, I am not in any contest or rivalry with any person. I have given a good account of my stewardship and Kogi East is comfortable with my representation.

“I want to set the records straight and clarify the events surrounding the incident. Contrary to the sensationalised and false accounts that have been propagated, the incident in question arose from a disagreement among some friends at a betting center. Regrettably, this dispute escalated into a violent altercation.

“My heart goes out to the victims of this unfortunate incident, and I extend my deepest sympathies to them and their families.

“Let me emphasise that I unequivocally condemn any form of violence or lawlessness. Such behavior has no place in our society, and it is essential that we all work together to promote peace and understanding among our people.

“I implore those who seek to exploit this unfortunate situation for political gains to cease their efforts immediately. We must not allow divisive and malicious tactics to undermine the unity and progress of our community,” the senator said in the statement.