Edo, Anambra Lawmakers Disagree Over Attack On Obi, Other ADC Leaders In Benin City

The member representing Orhionmwon/Uhunmwode federal constituency of Edo State, Hon. Billy Osawaru, has dismissed allegations by his colleague in the House of Representatives, Hon. Ifeanyi Uzokwe and African Democratic Congress (ADC) that Governor Okpebholo was behind the attacks on former presidential candidate of Labour Party, Peter Obi and other opposition leaders in Benin City, Edo State.

Obi and some chieftains of ADC, including John Odigie-Oyegun, were attacked by suspected thugs at the latter’s residence in Benin City on Tuesday.

Against this backdrop, the Anambra lawmaker Uzokwe asked Governor Okpebholo to immediately address the development and take responsibility for ensuring the safety and security of all political actors within his jurisdiction, irrespective of party affiliation.

However, his Edo counterpart Osawaru at a press conference in Abuja on Thursday faulted the call, insisting that it was ill-intentioned.

He said; “it is malicious and false to claim or even allege that former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential aspirant, Peter Obi, and members of his political camp were attacked by Edo state government officials or thugs sponsored by the governor of Edo State or its officials.

“While I acknowledge the gravity of situation and strongly condemn any form of violence in the strongest terms, I would, however, like to provide some context that seems to be missing from the narrative.

“Governor Okpebholo’s warning to Peter Obi was a genuine concern for his safety and wellbeing, given the unrest that followed Obi’s previous visit. It’s a matter of public record that there were fatalities and widespread unrest during his last visit to Edo state, and the Governor’s primary responsibility is to ensure the safety of all citizens and visitors,” Osawaru said.

He said the governor had regularly maintained that politically exposed persons are expected to at least notify relevant authorities ahead of serious public events in the state to enable adequate security coordination in the interest of public safety.

“It’s unfair to link the governor to this attack without concrete evidence. We have seen no credible evidence to support these allegations, and it’s our position that such claims are baseless and politically motivated.

“The governor has nothing to gain from such an attack, and it is telling that those making these allegations have failed to provide any substance to back their claims.
Governor Okpebholo’s administration is not and will never be in the business of attacking innocent Nigerians, regardless of their political affiliation.

“We urge the public, the ADC and our colleagues to focus on facts, not fiction. Obi has every right to visit Edo or anywhere for that matter, but security concerns are valid too. Let’s not politicise this issue. The people of Edo deserve peace and stability, not baseless allegations and inflammatory rhetoric.

“Therefore, what we demand is a thorough investigation, and we are confident it will clear Governor Okpebholo’s name. We call on all parties to allow the investigation to run its course and to refrain from making statements that could prejudice the outcome.

“Let me be clear: we are not dismissing the seriousness of the attack, but we will not stand idly by while our governor is smeared with baseless allegations. We will continue to focus on serving the people of Edo State and ensuring that peace and stability are maintained,” Osawaru added.