Edo lawmaker rejects claims linking state government to 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 refuted allegations that the Edo State Government was involved in the alleged attack on former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi.

Osawaru’s response followed an earlier media briefing by Hon. Patrick Uzokwe, who claimed that the February 24 incident involving Obi and other political figures during a visit to Edo State was connected to actors allegedly backed by the state government.

Speaking with journalists on Thursday in Abuja, the federal lawmaker described the allegation as “baseless, politically motivated, and completely unsupported by credible evidence.” He maintained that no security agency has implicated Governor Monday Okpebholo or any official of the state in relation to the reported 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 arose after 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 while in Edo State.

While condemning the reported attack and reiterating that violence has no place in democratic participation, Osawaru argued that attributing the incident to the Edo State Government amounts to speculation and political propaganda.

He stressed that, as of the time of his address, no law enforcement agency had established any link between Governor Okpebholo and the alleged incident.

“Accusations must be backed by verifiable facts,” he stated. “Until security agencies conclude their investigation and present their findings, it is premature and unjust to assign blame. Responsible public discourse demands restraint.”

Osawaru also warned against what he termed “trial by media,” cautioning that politicising an ongoing security matter could compromise investigations and escalate tensions. “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.”

He added that the Okpebholo administration remains committed to maintaining law and order, safeguarding residents and visitors, and ensuring that democratic activities in the state are conducted peacefully and within the framework of the law.