Reps Member Denies Edo Govt Role in Obi Convoy Attack

• Osawaru said there was no proof connecting Governor Monday Okpebholo or any state official to the attack
• Osawaru insisted that linking it to the state government amounted to speculation
• Osawaru further urged political leaders across party lines to exercise restraint and avoid inflammatory remarks

A member of the House of Representatives, Billy Osawaru, has rejected claims that the Edo State Government was involved in Tuesday’s attack on the convoy of former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, describing the allegations as baseless and politically driven.

Osawaru addressed journalists in Abuja on Thursday while responding to comments made by Anambra lawmaker Patrick Uzokwe, who alleged that the February 24, 2026 incident in Benin City may have involved actors linked to the state government, Eko Hot Blog reports.

Representing Orhionmwon/Uhunmwode Federal Constituency of Edo State, Osawaru said there was no proof connecting Governor Monday Okpebholo or any state official to the attack. He noted that no security agency had so far indicted the government.

He cautioned against making serious accusations without evidence, warning that suggesting state-sponsored violence without verified facts could mislead the public and heighten political tension.

The controversy arose after 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 attack, Osawaru insisted that linking it to the state government amounted to speculation. He said it would be unfair to apportion blame before security agencies conclude their investigations and release official findings.

The lawmaker also criticised what he described as “trial by media,” arguing that politicising an ongoing security matter could interfere with investigations and escalate tensions.

The incident comes amid heightened political activity in the state, particularly following a security advisory previously issued by Governor Okpebholo ahead of Obi’s planned visit.

In July 2025, the governor directed politically exposed persons intending to hold large public events in Edo to notify and obtain clearance from security agencies to ensure adequate protection.

Some opposition figures interpreted the directive as an attempt to restrict Obi’s movements, an allegation the Edo State Government denied.

Clarifying the issue, Osawaru said the advisory was purely a precautionary security measure aimed at safeguarding lives and property, not an attempt to target any individual.

He reiterated his call for a thorough and impartial probe into the attack, expressing confidence that the investigation would clear the state government of any wrongdoing.

Osawaru further urged political leaders across party lines to exercise restraint and avoid inflammatory remarks that could destabilise the state. According to him, responsible leadership requires prioritising peace, stability and factual discourse over partisan narratives.

He maintained that the Okpebholo administration remains committed to upholding law and order, ensuring the safety of residents and visitors, and providing a secure environment for lawful political activities in Edo State.