The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State has slammed the chairman of the factional chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state over the allegation that Governor Monday Okpebholo deployed thugs and armed men to attack three Local Government Area (LGA) headquarters in the State.
Naija News reported that suspected thugs on Monday barricaded the Etsako West Local Government Secretariat in Auchi, Edo State, preventing the council chairman, Marvellous Zibiri, and workers from accessing their offices.
The incident follows the suspension of all 18 council chairmen and their deputies by the Edo State House of Assembly on December 17, 2024.
In response, the APC Chairman, Jarret Tenebe, in a statement on Saturday, condemned the PDP’s allegations against Governor Okpebholo, describing it as reckless, irresponsible, and politically motivated.
Tenebe said findings from several eyewitnesses and stakeholders 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.
The APC chieftain urged the public to be cautious of such allegations designed to mislead and deceive.
The statement added, “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.
“Firstly, 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 characterized 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 in the report, 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.
“Governor Okpebholo’s administration has been working to resolve these conflicts and ensure that the councils are run in a peaceful and democratic manner.
“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.
“Chairman of the factional PDP Caretaker Committee in Edo State, Tony Aziegbemi, should be questioned. Since he orchestrated his own kidnapping and extracted a huge sum of money from his friends as ransom, it appears that his mental health has been impaired.
“In conclusion, our investigation has shown that the allegations made against Governor Okpebholo are unfounded and without merit.
“We stand by the Governor’s commitment to good governance, transparency, and accountability, and we will continue to provide accurate and unbiased information on the events unfolding in Edo State.”