The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State has strongly rejected what it described as a series of “false and politicised” press statements from the factional Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), accusing the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo of illegality, extravagance, and political intimidation.
In a statement signed by the State Publicity Secretary, Barr. Peter Uwadiae Igbinigie, the APC condemned PDP’s repeated claims—made on June 5, 9, and 11—alleging unlawful local government appointments, wasteful spending on official vehicles, suppression of opposition voices, and victimisation of political figures. The party described these accusations as “baseless” and “divorced from the pressing needs of Edo people.”
“Governor Monday Okpebholo, elected in September 2024 and vindicated by the courts, has acted strictly within the law,” the statement read. “The claim of ‘impostor’ chairmen ignores judicial rulings and legal processes which the PDP continues to deny, while the people of Edo have moved on.”
The APC defended the procurement of new vehicles for local government administration, saying the move was aimed at improving grassroots governance and should not be mistaken for luxury spending. “It is ironic that the same PDP, once notorious for mismanaging public funds at the local level, is now accusing this administration of waste,” Igbinigie said.
Addressing accusations of suppressing opposition, the APC clarified that defamation threats against PDP member Mr. Ogbeide Ifaluyi‑Isibor were triggered by social media posts containing false and defamatory claims about Governor Okpebholo, not for legitimate criticism. “The administration welcomes criticism but draws the line at deliberate falsehoods presented as dissent,” the party emphasized.
On the reported threat to demolish properties allegedly belonging to Representative Marcus Onobun and Hon. Collins Aigbogun, the APC insisted the actions were tied to law enforcement operations to curb cult-related violence in Esan West—not political witch-hunting. “Weaponising the state’s anti-cultism laws for political sympathy is dangerous and misleading,” Igbinigie warned.
The party also dismissed PDP’s allegations concerning the government’s response to recent flooding in the state, stating that Governor Okpebholo’s administration has been actively clearing blocked drainages, desilting waterways, and coordinating relief efforts at the local level.
“The PDP must abandon its obsession with past grievances and join hands in building a safer, cleaner, and more prosperous Edo State,” the statement concluded. “Governor Okpebholo is focused on delivering results. Edo deserves less noise and more progress.”
The APC called on the PDP to shift from what it termed “political escapism” to a more constructive and collaborative approach to governance.
