The Edo State Government has denied claims that Governor Monday Okpebholo ordered an attack on former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi during his recent visit to the state.
KanyiDaily recalls that Peter Obi was attacked at the home of former APC National Chairman John Odigie-Oyegun, where gunmen reportedly fired at the gate and several vehicles.
In a statement on Monday night, Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Patrick Ebojele, said Okpebholo will not target law-abiding citizens, regardless of their political affiliation.
Describing the allegations as false and misleading, the government said neither Okpebholo nor any state agency ordered the attack on the former Anambra state governor.
Patrick Ebojele added that the allegation was unsupported by credible evidence and appeared designed to mislead the public and heighten political tension.
It reads in part, “The statement recalled the Governor’s earlier position regarding high-profile political visits to Edo State, where he made it clear that his comments were purely guided by security responsibility as the Chief Security Officer of the state, and not borne out of political hostility toward any individual or group.
“Governor Okpebholo had consistently maintained that politically exposed persons are expected to notify relevant authorities ahead of major public engagements to enable adequate security coordination in the interest of public safety.
“We view any attempt to twist the Governor’s security advisory into claims of intimidation or orchestrated attacks as unfortunate, misleading and politically motivated.
“For the avoidance of doubt, just yesterday, Monday,23 February,a faction of the ADC led by former Chief Whip of the Senate,Roland Owie, were shut out of a meeting held at the residence of John Odigie-Oyegun’s due to internal crisis within the party and was only resolved following a detachment of armed police officers to restore peace.’
“It is now evident that the ADC and by extension Peter Obi is mischievous and making efforts to cast aspersion on the good things that this administration is doing. It only suggests to us that Peter Obi is synonymous with violence and the state government will not condole such acts.
“The Edo State Government therefore urges political actors to verify facts before making public statements capable of overheating the polity. The administration remains firmly committed to protecting all residents and visitors while upholding the constitutional rights of Nigerians to lawful movement and association.
“The government reiterates that its focus remains on governance, public safety and economic development, and not political persecution.”
KanyiDaily recalls that Nollywood actor turned politician, Kenneth Okonkwo, claimed that the recent attack on Peter Obi was carried out by the government or its agents.
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