Edo PDP chieftain Inegbeniki denies plot to disrupt by-elections

Francis Inegbeniki, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the Edo Central senatorial district, has denied allegations that he is planning to disrupt Saturday’s by-elections.

The accusation was made by Emperor Jarret Tenebe, Edo chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who claimed Inegbeniki was mobilising youths from neighbouring states to cause unrest during the polls in Esan land.

Tenebe also alleged that Inegbeniki was linked to the killing of a policeman, Inspector Unoh Akor.

Responding on Friday, Inegbeniki described the allegations as false, malicious, and intended to mislead the public.

“My attention has been drawn to a libellous press release signed by a self-styled Emperor Jarret Tenebe, where my name was mentioned as one of those mobilising tugs to disrupt the Saturday election in Esan Land (Edo Central Senatorial District),” he said.

“I take exception to that reckless statement coming from the mouth of a deserter soldier. It is clear that the self-styled Emperor Jarret Tenebe needs urgent mental health medical attention, and he should not be taken seriously.

“Jarret has become a disgrace to the APC. he is known for his reckless talks; he talks before thinking.”

The PDP chieftain urged residents of Edo Central to go out peacefully and exercise their civic rights.

“The APC must begin to watch the activities of Jarret Tenebe; he is known in the past to make this kind of reckless statement so that the APC can release money to him to counter the so-called imaginary thugs. This must be one of such statements to collect money from the APC,” he added.

“Once again, I deny any involvement in the death of the policeman, Inspector Unoh Akor. I was not on Airport Road on the day of the incident, nor did I plan or conspire with anyone.

“I am innocent of the allegations. It is now clear that it was Jarret Tenebe who framed up the accusations against me just to smear my hard-earned reputation. I was not involved.

“Being an innocent and law-abiding Nigerian, I have already instituted a libel action against Jarret Tenebe and his cohorts; we are in court, and I believe I will get justice.”