The Edo State Government has rejected allegations that it masterminded an attack on leaders and members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing the claims as false, malicious, and a distortion of facts.
In a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Dr. Patrick Ebojele, the government faulted comments attributed to former Anambra State governor and Labour Party figure Peter Obi, who alleged that members of his political camp were attacked by government officials in Edo State.
Ebojele said the state government viewed the allegation with concern and categorically denied any involvement.
“The Okpebholo administration is not, and will never be, in the business of attacking innocent Nigerians, regardless of their political affiliation. At no time was any directive issued by the governor or any arm of the Edo State Government to target members of any political party,” the statement read.
According to him, the allegations lack credible evidence and appear designed to mislead the public and stir unnecessary political tension.
The government also referenced the governor’s earlier remarks concerning high-profile political visits to the state, clarifying that his comments were strictly guided by his responsibility as Chief Security Officer of Edo State and not by political hostility.
It maintained that politically exposed persons are expected to notify relevant authorities before major public engagements to ensure adequate security coordination in the interest of public safety. The government described attempts to portray the security advisory as intimidation or orchestrated attacks as misleading and politically motivated.
Ebojele further noted that on Monday, February 23, a faction of the ADC led by former Senate Chief Whip Roland Owie was reportedly denied access to a meeting at the residence of John Odigie-Oyegun due to internal party disputes. He said the situation was resolved after armed police officers intervened to restore order.
The statement accused the ADC and Peter Obi of attempting to cast aspersions on the administration’s achievements, insisting that the state government would not condone violence from any quarter.
The Edo State Government urged political actors to verify their claims before making public statements capable of overheating the polity. It reiterated its commitment to protecting residents and visitors while upholding constitutional rights to lawful movement and association.
The administration, it added, remains focused on governance, public safety, and economic development rather than political persecution.
