It’s Unfair Linking Alleged Attack On Peter Obi To Gov. Okpebholo’s Earlier Warning-Hon. Osawaru

By Alkassim Bala Tsakuwa, Abuja

The member Representing Orhionmwon/ Uhunmwode Federal Constituency, Edo State in the House of Representatives, Hon. Billy Osawaru has stated that, it was unfair to link the alleged attack on the former presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, former APC National Chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, and some chieftains of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Benin City.

He stated this at a Press conference in Abuja on Thursday while reacting to the recent allegations made by Hon. Ifeanyi Peter Uzokwe and African Democratic Congress (ADC).

It could be recalled that, Uzokwe had at a Press briefing earlier condemned the said alleged attack and called for probe.

However, Hon. Osawaru said, it is malicious and false to claim or allege that the former Anambra State Governor and members of his political camp were attacked by Edo State government officials or thugs sponsored by the Government or its officials which he said will be a will misrepresentation of the fact.

Hon. Osawaru said, “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’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”.

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

He added, “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 politicize 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”.