Group Defends NDDC Rep, Condemns Alleged Smear Campaign

The Orhionmwon Youth Movement (OYM) has dismissed allegations levelled against the Federal Commissioner representing Edo State on the Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Rt. Hon. Patrick Aisowieren, describing them as false, misleading and politically motivated.

The group, in a statement signed by its coordinator, Uyiekpen Moses, and made available to journalists, condemned what it described as a sustained campaign of sponsored publications and social media attacks aimed at tarnishing Aisowieren’s reputation.

According to the group, the allegations circulating on various platforms were part of a coordinated effort by political opponents to undermine the standing of the former lawmaker within the All Progressives Congress (APC).

“OYM categorically rejects and condemns the baseless allegations and unfounded accusations contained in the various statements circulating on social media and other platforms. These claims are not only false and misleading but appear to be part of a coordinated campaign by desperate political actors determined to tarnish the hard-earned reputation of a man who has consistently demonstrated loyalty, commitment and dedication to the growth and success of the APC,” the statement read.

The youth group maintained that Aisowieren remained a loyal and committed member of the ruling party, noting that he had consistently worked towards promoting unity, inclusiveness and harmony among party members in Orhionmwon, Uhunmwonde and other parts of Edo State.

It further stated that his contributions to the growth of the APC and his efforts at mobilising support for the party at various levels were widely acknowledged by stakeholders.

The group expressed concern over what it described as attempts by some individuals to resort to misinformation, character assassination and political blackmail rather than pursuing constructive engagement capable of advancing the collective interests of the party.

OYM therefore urged APC members and the general public to disregard the allegations, insisting that they were intended to create division within the party and distract members from the task of consolidating APC’s political gains.

The group also called for unity among party faithful ahead of future elections, stressing that collaboration, mutual respect and internal cohesion were necessary for the party’s continued success.

It further urged those behind the publications to desist from actions capable of causing disaffection within the party and instead embrace issue-based politics and constructive engagement.