The Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has described as malicious a statement credited to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) to the effect that the governor allocated N6 billion to compensate so-called ” Fulani terrorists”.
The governor’s denial came following a report making the rounds by the IPOB, who accused Okpebholo of paying N6 billion as compensation for the lynched Northern hunters in Uromi, Edo State.
IPOB had a statement on Monday by its media and Publicity Secretary, Emman Powerful, who wondered why the compensation was made despite the devastation caused by Fulani terrorists in farms and communities, leaving thousands of indigenous people, including the Edo community, for years without reparations.
But Okpebholo in statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Ituah said the Federal Government of Nigeria has proscribed IPOB as a terrorist group attempt to distort facts, sow ethnic division and destabilise peace and unity in Edo State adding that it is a familiar strategy of IPOB to spew falsehood and incite hatred under the guise of activism.
While debunking the allegation, Itua stated, “No compensation of N6 billion was approved or paid to any group as claimed. The figures and narrative being peddled are fictitious, malicious, and misleading. The Edo State Government has not and will not compensate any individual or group involved in acts of terror or criminality.
“Governor Monday Okpebholo remains committed to justice and the rule of law. His administration has prioritized the safety of all citizens, irrespective of ethnic or religious backgrounds.
“The baseless allegation that he handed over vigilantes to “Fulani authorities” is not only a ridiculous lie but an affront to the memory of the security personnel who serve Edo State with honour.
“The group’s audacity to lecture Southern Governors on bravery is laughable. IPOB is responsible for the deaths of thousands of innocent Nigerians, including Igbos, through its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network. A group that murders, maims, and imposes illegal sit-at-home orders in the Southeast cannot pretend to care about justice or human rights.
It further noted that the State Government would not be distracted by the noise of criminals masquerading as freedom fighters, assuring that the government will continue to pursue peace, development, and inclusive governance for every resident of Edo State.
