The member representing Orhionmwon/Uhunmwode Federal Constituency of Edo State, Hon.Billy Osawaru, has dismissed claims that Governor Monday Okpebholo was responsible for the assassination attempt on former presidential candidate, Peter Obi and other opposition leaders.
He was replying to allegations by his colleague in the House of Representatives, Hon. Ifeanyi Uzokwe (Anambra State), who stated that Okpebholo must address the development and take responsibility for ensuring the safety and security of all political actors within his jurisdiction, irrespective of party affiliation.
Bellnews recalls that Obi and some chieftains of the ADC, including John Odigie-Oyegun, were attacked by suspected thugs at the party’s state secretariat in Benin City on Tuesday.
However, Osawaru while addressing newsmen at a press conference in Abuja on Thursday, stated that Uzokwe’s call 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 the 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 is 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.”
He said the Governor had consistently maintained that politically exposed persons are expected to at least notify relevant authorities ahead of any serious public event in the state to enable adequate security coordination in the interest of public safety.
“It is unfair to link the Governor to this attack without concrete evidence. We have seen no credible evidence to support these allegations, and it is 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 us not politicize this issue,” he added.