Reps Member Defends Edo Governor, Condemns Attack on Obi
A member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Billy Famos Adesuwa Osawaru has dismissed allegations linking the Edo State Government to the recent attack on former Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi during a visit to the state.
Addressing journalists in Abuja Thursday, Osawaru, who represents Oredo/Orhionmwon Federal Constituency of Edo State, described as “malicious and false” claims that the attack was sponsored by Governor Monday Okpebholo or officials of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Peter Obi was reportedly attacked by suspected gunmen on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, alongside some political figures, including APC chieftains and members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), sparking political tension in the state.
Reacting to statements made by some opposition lawmakers, Osawaru insisted there was no credible evidence linking the governor or any state official to the incident, warning against what he termed premature conclusions.
“I strongly condemn any form of violence,” he said, stressing that the matter should not be politicised while security agencies are still conducting investigations.
The lawmaker argued that Governor Okpebholo’s earlier advisory that politically exposed persons should notify relevant authorities before large public engagements was motivated purely by security considerations.
According to him, unrest and reported fatalities followed Obi’s previous visit to the state, making it necessary for the government to emphasize coordination with security agencies to prevent breakdown of law and order.
Osawaru maintained that the governor, as chief security officer of the state, has a constitutional responsibility to protect residents and visitors alike, regardless of political affiliation.
He further suggested that internal crises within political parties could sometimes manifest during high profile visits, noting that such tensions should not automatically be attributed to the state government.
Clarifying that he was not speaking as an official spokesperson of the Edo State Government but as a federal lawmaker from the state.
Osawaru criticized colleagues who publicly accused the governor while investigations remain ongoing, calling for calm across party lines just as he urged politicians and their supporters to avoid inflammatory rhetoric,
He expressed confidence that a thorough investigation would establish the facts and ensure justice while preserving peace and stability in Edo State.
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