The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State, Mr. Jarrett Tenebe, has raised the alarm over planned protests scheduled to hold in parts of the state this week.
Tenebe said intelligence reports revealed the protests are being sponsored by certain individuals and leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
But in a swift response, the Edo State PDP Publicity Secretary, Mr. Chris Nehikhare, has faulted the APC’s position.
According to Nehikhare, the APC must learn to differentiate itself from the government
Tenebe said, “We have reason to believe these protests are not genuine. They are sponsored and orchestrated by the PDP to destabilize Edo State,” he said.
Tenebe, however, maintained that Governor Monday Okpebholo respects the rights of citizens to peaceful protest and free expression as guaranteed by the Constitution.
“But we have observed deliberate misinformation and falsehoods being spread ahead of these protests,” he stated.
According to him, the aim is not constructive dialogue but to incite unrest and undermine the progress made by the Okpebholo-led administration.
The APC, he said, has identified individuals and groups behind the plot. “Their actions are meant to create tension and threaten law and order,” Tenebe warned.
He urged Edo people to be vigilant and distance themselves from the protests, while assuring that the government will protect lives and property.
“We won’t allow anyone, no matter their motive, to disrupt the peace of Edo State,” he stressed.
Tenebe disclosed that security agencies have been placed on high alert to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
According to Nehikhare, APC, “cannot assume the authority to issue security alerts unless the government has officially transferred its security responsibilities to the party,” Nehikhare said.
He added that the PDP was not surprised by the APC’s alarm, describing Edo as “a state under siege.”
“The government has provided no clue or indication that it can address the insecurity it has imposed on Edo State,” he stated.
Nehikhare likened the APC’s actions to “a butterfly that thinks itself a bird.”
Despite the PDP’s criticisms, Tenebe insisted the APC remains focused on supporting Governor Okpebholo’s administration.
“We urge all citizens to remain calm, go about their businesses, and continue supporting the government to build a peaceful and prosperous Edo State,” Tenebe concluded.
Discussion about this post