The Edo State Government has rejected allegations by former Anambra State governor and Labour Party chieftain, Peter Obi, that members of his political camp were attacked by government officials during a recent visit to the state.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the government described the allegation as “false, malicious and a clear misrepresentation of the facts,” insisting that no arm of the state government was directed to target any political group.

The statement, signed by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, maintained that the administration “is not, and will never be, in the business of attacking innocent Nigerians, regardless of their political affiliation.”

According to the government, no directive was issued by the governor or any organ of government to intimidate or attack members of any political party. It argued that the claims lack credible evidence and appear designed to mislead the public and generate unnecessary political tension.

The government recalled Governor Okpebholo’s earlier remarks concerning high-profile political visits to Edo State, clarifying that his comments were guided strictly by his constitutional responsibility as Chief Security Officer of the state. It stressed that the governor’s position was rooted in security considerations rather than political hostility toward any individual or group.

The administration reiterated that politically exposed persons are expected to notify relevant authorities ahead of major public engagements to ensure adequate security coordination in the interest of public safety. It described attempts to interpret the governor’s security advisory as intimidation or orchestrated attacks as “unfortunate, misleading and politically motivated.”

Citing a recent incident, the government noted that on Monday, February 23, a faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) led by former Senate Chief Whip, Roland Owie, was reportedly denied access to a meeting at the residence of former national chairman of the All Progressives Congress, John Odigie-Oyegun, due to internal party disagreements. The situation, it said, was later brought under control following the intervention of armed police officers to restore order.

The state government maintained that linking such incidents to the governor or his administration was unfounded. It accused Obi and elements within the ADC of attempting to cast aspersions on the administration’s record, describing the narrative as politically mischievous.

While refraining from escalating the rhetoric, the government urged political actors to verify facts before issuing public statements capable of overheating the polity.

It reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding all residents and visitors to Edo State, while upholding the constitutional rights of Nigerians to freedom of movement and association.

The statement added that the administration remains focused on governance, public safety and economic development, and not political persecution.

The statement was signed by Patrick Akhere Ebojele, PhD, Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor.