Edo PDP Faction's Claims of "Lawlessness" Deemed Unfounded – APC
January 3rd, 2025 – Benin City, Edo State – The Edo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has vehemently dismissed allegations leveled by a factional Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) caretaker committee against Governor Monday Okpebholo. The PDP faction accused the governor of “exterminating constitutional democracy” and operating with “lawlessness.”
In a press release issued today and signed by Edo State APC Chairman, Jarret Tenebe, the party described the PDP’s claims as “unfounded and libelous.” The statement defended the recent suspension of local government chairmen and vice chairmen by the Edo State House of Assembly, characterizing the action as necessary for maintaining order and stability within the state.
“Governor Okpebholo, as the Chief Executive, has a responsibility to ensure that all three tiers of government operate within the law,” the statement read. “The Edo State Laws, as documented by the Ministry of Justice, provide the framework for governance.”
The APC further accused the PDP of engaging in a desperate attempt to discredit the Governor and the state government, labeling the PDP’s actions as a “desperate attempt…rather than a genuine concern for the welfare of the people.”
The statement went on to launch a scathing attack on the PDP’s past governance in the state, referencing the administration of former Governor Godwin Obaseki. The APC alleged that Obaseki’s tenure was marked by the “biggest financial heist in history,” the refusal to swear in 14 out of 24 House of Assembly members for four years, and the arbitrary removal and suspension of local government chairmen. Further accusations included the demolition of opposition members’ properties despite valid court orders.
“The delusional factional PDP was deaf and blind to all the constitutional breaches and atrocities committed by the Obaseki-led regime,” the statement asserted. The APC linked the current actions of the PDP to the ongoing governorship tribunal case, suggesting the suspensions were aimed at cutting off funding sources for the opposition.
The APC concluded by expressing full support for the House of Assembly’s actions and urged anti-graft agencies to recover allegedly stolen funds. The party also backed the impeachment efforts of councillors against the suspended chairmen. They emphasized Governor Okpebholo’s mandate and vowed to resist what they termed the PDP’s “blackmail” and “twisting of facts.”
The statement ends with a defiant: “Enough is enough!” This latest development significantly escalates the political tension in Edo State, setting the stage for a potential protracted battle between the ruling APC and the embattled PDP faction. De Parrot Media will continue to provide updates on this developing story.