By Kolawole Ojebisi
The Acting Chairman of the All Progressives Congress(APC) Edo State Chapter, Jarrett Tenebe, has expressed disappointment over the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)’s allegation that the attack on its secretariats in the state was sponsored by Governor Monday Okpebholo’s led government.
Tenebe claimed that the internal crises within the state led to an attack on council secretariats in Edo State.
The APC acting chairman said this in a statement issued on Saturday. Exonerating Okpebholo of any involvement in the attack, Tenebe said the governor has high regard for the rule of law.
Tenebe noted that a recent statement authored by the chairman of the factional chapter of the PDP in the state, Tony Aziegbemi, made spurious allegations against Okpebholo, claiming that he deployed thugs and armed men to attack three Local Government Area headquarters in the State.
He stated, “The statement further alleged that the Governor’s actions were aimed at violently seizing control of the council headquarters, despite court orders and injunctions restraining him from doing so. As a responsible party, we feel compelled to set the record straight and provide a more accurate account of the events that transpired.
“After conducting a thorough investigation and gathering evidence from multiple sources, we can categorically state that the allegations made against Governor Okpebholo are baseless, misleading, and politically motivated.
“First, it is essential to note that the Governor has consistently demonstrated his commitment to upholding the rule of law and respecting the democratic process.
“His administration has been characterised by a strong emphasis on good governance, transparency, and accountability, which has earned him the respect and admiration of the people of Edo State.”
“Contrary to the claims made by the PDP, our investigation revealed that the incidents at the LGA headquarters were not orchestrated by the Governor or his agents. Instead, they were the result of internal conflicts and power struggles within the local government councils, which have been ongoing for several months.”
The acting chairman added that most of the eyewitnesses confirmed that the factions were seeking to assert control of the secretariats.
He added, “We spoke to several eyewitnesses and stakeholders who confirmed that the violence and destruction that occurred at the LGA headquarters were perpetrated by rival factions within the councils and the factional PDP, who were seeking to assert their control and dominance.
“Governor Okpebholo’s administration has been working to resolve these conflicts and ensure that the councils are run peacefully and democratically.
“Furthermore, we have obtained documents and evidence that show that the Governor has been complying with all court orders and injunctions related to the LGA councils.
“His administration has been engaging with the relevant authorities and stakeholders to ensure that the democratic process is respected and that the rights of all parties are protected. In light of these findings, we strongly condemn the PDP’s allegations against Governor Okpebholo as reckless, irresponsible, and politically motivated.”
