A member of the House of Representatives, Billy Osawaru, has dismissed allegations linking the Edo State Government to Tuesday’s attack on the convoy of former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, describing the claims as false and politically motivated.

Osawaru spoke on Thursday while addressing members of the House of Representatives Press Corps in Abuja, reacting to accusations by his Anambra counterpart, Patrick Uzokwe, who alleged that the February 24, 2026 incident in Benin City involved state-backed actors.

The lawmaker, who represents Orhionmwon/Uhunmwode Federal Constituency of Edo State, said there was no evidence connecting the attack to Governor Monday Okpebholo or any official of the state government, noting that no security agency had made such a finding.

“It is dangerous to stand before the press and insinuate state-sponsored violence without proof. Such allegations not only mislead the public but risk inflaming tensions in an already charged political environment,” Osawaru said.
The controversy followed 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 incident, Osawaru described attempts to link the attack to the state government as speculation and political propaganda.

“Accusations must be backed by verifiable facts,” he said. “Until security agencies conclude their investigation and present their findings, it is premature and unjust to assign blame. Responsible public discourse demands restraint.”

He warned against what he termed “trial by media,” saying the politicisation of an ongoing security matter could undermine investigations and heighten tensions.

The incident occurred amid heightened political tension following an earlier security advisory issued by Governor Okpebholo ahead of Obi’s visit. In July 2025, the governor had advised that politically exposed persons planning large public engagements in Edo should notify and obtain clearance from security agencies to ensure adequate protection of lives and property. The directive followed intelligence reports indicating potential security threats linked to unscheduled political gatherings.

However, critics interpreted the advisory as an attempt to restrict Obi’s political activities in the state — a claim the Edo Government denied.

Addressing the issue, Osawaru said the governor’s position was strictly a security measure and not an act of hostility.

“It is standard practice for politically exposed persons to notify relevant authorities before large public engagements to enable proper security coordination. To twist that advisory into evidence of hostility or premeditation is a deliberate distortion of its intent,” he said.

Reaffirming his stance, the lawmaker called for a thorough and impartial investigation into the alleged attack, expressing confidence that the findings would clear the governor of any wrongdoing.

“We unequivocally condemn violence, regardless of the victim’s political affiliation,” he added. “But we will not allow unfounded allegations to tarnish the reputation of the Edo State Government or its leadership.”

Osawaru urged political actors across party lines to avoid inflammatory statements and prioritise peace and stability in the state.

“The people of Edo deserve responsible politics rooted in facts, not narratives driven by conjecture. At a time like this, unity and calm must prevail over partisan theatrics,” he said.

He maintained that the Okpebholo-led administration remains committed to law and order, protecting residents and visitors, and ensuring political activities are conducted peacefully and in accordance with the law.