Edo lawmaker denies state role in alleged attack on Peter Obi

A member of the House of Representatives representing Orhionmwon/Uhunmwode Federal Constituency of Edo State, Hon. Billy Famous Osawaru, has dismissed allegations linking the Edo State Government to the alleged attack on former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi.

Osawaru was reacting to an earlier media briefing by Hon. Patrick Uzokwe, who alleged that the February 24 incident involving Obi and other political figures in Edo State was connected to state-backed actors.

Addressing journalists on Thursday in Abuja, the federal lawmaker described the claim as “baseless, politically motivated, and completely unsupported by credible evidence,” stressing that no security agency has indicted Governor Monday Okpebholo or any state official in connection with the alleged attack.

“It is dangerous to stand before the press and insinuate state-sponsored violence without proof,” Osawaru said. “Such allegations not only mislead the public but risk inflaming tensions in an already charged political environment.”

The controversy followed reports that Obi, alongside former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, John Odigie-Oyegun, and members of the African Democratic Congress, were allegedly attacked by suspected gunmen during a visit to Edo State.

While condemning the incident and affirming that violence has no place in democratic engagement, Osawaru insisted that attempts to link the attack to the Edo State Government amount to speculation and political propaganda.

He 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,” he said. “Until security agencies conclude their investigation and present their findings, it is premature and unjust to assign blame. Responsible public discourse demands restraint.”

Osawaru cautioned against what he described as “trial by media,” warning that politicising an ongoing security matter could undermine investigative efforts and heighten tensions.

He also addressed insinuations regarding Governor Okpebholo’s earlier advisory ahead of Obi’s visit to the state, explaining that the governor’s remarks were based strictly on 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,” he said. “To twist that advisory into evidence of hostility or premeditation is a deliberate distortion of its intent.”

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.

“We unequivocally condemn violence, regardless of the victim’s political affiliation,” he added. “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 prioritise the peace and stability of Edo State.

The people of Edo deserve responsible politics rooted in facts, not narratives driven by conjecture,” he said. “At a time like this, unity and calm must prevail over partisan theatrics.”

Osawaru added that the Okpebholo administration remains committed to upholding law and order, protecting residents and visitors, and ensuring that democratic engagement in the state is conducted peacefully and within the bounds of the law.

Culled from vanguard