Edo Politics Heats Up As Lawmaker Rebuts Claims Against Gov Okpebholo And Peter Obi

The member representing Orhionmwon/Uhunmwode Federal Constituency in Edo State, Hon. Billy Osawaru, has rejected claims that Governor Monday Okpebholo was involved in the assassination attempt on former presidential candidate Peter Obi and other opposition figures.

Osawaru’s comments came in response to allegations by his House of Representatives colleague, Hon. Ifeanyi Uzokwe of Anambra State, who insisted that Governor Okpebholo must address the incident and ensure the safety of all political actors in his jurisdiction, regardless of party affiliation.

The attack occurred on Tuesday at the All Progressives Congress (ADC) state secretariat in Benin City, where Obi and some party chieftains, including John Odigie-Oyegun, were targeted by suspected thugs.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Thursday, Osawaru described Uzokwe’s remarks as ill-intentioned and unfounded.

“It is malicious and false to allege that Peter Obi, former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential aspirant, and his supporters were attacked by Edo State government officials or thugs sponsored by Governor Okpebholo,” he said.

While condemning any form of violence, Osawaru emphasized the importance of context. He noted that the Governor’s warning to Obi was a genuine concern for his safety, referencing unrest and fatalities that followed Obi’s previous visit to Edo State. “The Governor’s primary responsibility is to ensure the safety of all citizens and visitors,” he added.

Osawaru also highlighted that politically exposed persons are expected to notify relevant authorities ahead of major public events to facilitate proper security coordination.

“It is unfair to link the Governor to this attack without concrete evidence. No credible proof supports these allegations, which appear politically motivated. Governor Okpebholo has nothing to gain from such an attack, and his administration does not engage in harming innocent Nigerians, irrespective of political affiliation,” he stressed.

He urged the public, the ADC, and lawmakers to prioritize facts over speculation, emphasizing that while Obi is free to visit Edo State, legitimate security concerns must be respected.