Dare Babalola
A member of the House of Representatives, Billy Osawaru, has denied claims that the Edo State Government was involved in Tuesday’s attack on former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi’s convoy, calling the allegations false and driven by politics.
Osawaru spoke to the House of Representatives Press Corps in Abuja on Thursday, dismissing accusations by Anambra lawmaker Patrick Uzokwe, who claimed state actors were involved in the February 24 attack on Obi’s convoy in Benin City.
The lawmaker, representing Orhionmwon/Uhunmwode Federal Constituency, said there is no evidence linking the attack to Governor Monday Okpebholo or the state government, noting that no security agency has made such a claim.
“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, John Odigie-Oyegun, and other leaders of the African Democratic Congress, was allegedly attacked by suspected gunmen during a political visit to Edo State.
While condemning the incident, Osawaru said efforts to link the attack to the state government amounted to speculation and political propaganda.
Osawaru said, “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.”
He warned against what he described as “trial by media,” saying the politicisation of an ongoing security matter could undermine investigations and worsen tensions.
The incident has come amid heightened political tension following an earlier security advisory issued by Governor Okpebholo ahead of Obi’s visit to the state.
The governor had in July 2025, warned that politically exposed persons planning large public engagements in Edo must notify and obtain clearance from security agencies to enable adequate protection of lives and property. The directive came after concerns over intelligence reports indicating potential security threats associated with unscheduled political gatherings.
However, critics and opposition figures interpreted the advisory as an attempt to restrict Obi’s movements and political activities in the state, a claim the Edo Government denied.
Addressing the issue, Osawaru said the governor’s position was purely a security measure and not an act of hostility.
“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, the lawmaker called for a thorough and impartial 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 said. “But we will not allow unfounded allegations to tarnish the reputation of the Edo State Government or its leadership,” he explained.
Osawaru also urged political actors across party lines to avoid inflammatory statements and prioritise peace and stability in the state.
“The people of Edo deserve responsible politics rooted in facts, not narratives driven by conjecture,” he added. “At a time like this, unity and calm must prevail over partisan theatrics,” he explained.
He said the Okpebholo-led government is committed to maintaining law and order, protecting residents and visitors, and ensuring peaceful political activities in the state.
