A member of the House of Representatives, Mr Billy Famous Osawaru, has dismissed allegations that former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi was attacked by officials or thugs linked to the Edo State Government.
Reacting to claims by another lawmaker, Mr Patrick Uzokwe, that the February 24 incident involving Obi and other political figures was connected to state-backed actors, Osawaru described the allegation as baseless, politically motivated and unsupported by credible evidence.
He maintained that no security agency has indicted Governor Monday Okpebholo or any official of the state government in relation to the alleged attack
He said; “It is dangerous to stand before the press and insinuate state-sponsored violence without proof.
“Such allegations not only mislead the public but risk inflaming tensions in an already charged political environment,” Osawaru said.
The controversy followed reports that Obi, alongside former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), John Odigie-Oyegun, and members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), were allegedly attacked by suspected gunmen during a visit to Edo State.
While condemning the incident in strong terms and affirming that violence has no place in democratic engagement, Mr. Osawaru insisted that attempts to link the attack to the Edo State Government amount to speculation and political propaganda.
The lawmaker emphasized that, as of the time of his briefing, no law enforcement authority had established any connection between Governor Okpebholo and the alleged attack.
“Accusations must be backed by verifiable facts.
“Until security agencies conclude their investigation and present their findings, it is premature and unjust to assign blame. Responsible public discourse demands restraint,” Osawaru said.
He cautioned against what he described as “trial by media,” warning that politicizing an ongoing security matter could undermine investigative efforts and heighten tensions.
Osawaru also addressed insinuations regarding Governor Okpebholo’s earlier advisory ahead of Obi’s visit to the state.
According to him, the Governor’s remarks were grounded strictly in security considerations and his constitutional obligation to safeguard lives and property.
“It is standard practice for politically exposed persons to notify relevant authorities before large public engagements to enable proper security coordination.
“To twist that advisory into evidence of hostility or premeditation is a deliberate distortion of its intent,” he explained.
Reaffirming his position, Osawaru called for a thorough, impartial, and transparent investigation into the alleged attack, expressing confidence that the outcome would clear the Governor of any wrongdoing.
The lawmaker said; “We unequivocally condemn violence, regardless of the victim’s political affiliation,” he said. “But we will not allow unfounded allegations to tarnish the reputation of the Edo State Government or its leadership.”
He urged political actors across party lines to avoid inflammatory rhetoric and prioritize the peace and stability of Edo State.
Osawaru said; “The people of Edo deserve responsible politics rooted in facts, not narratives driven by conjecture.
“At a time like this, unity and calm must prevail over partisan theatrics.”
He added that Governor Okpebholo’s administration remains committed to upholding law and order, protecting residents and visitors alike, and ensuring that democratic engagement in the state is conducted peacefully and within the bounds of the law.