From Tony Osauzo, Benin
The Edo State Government has condemned a press statement by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), a proscribed terrorist organisation, falsely accusing Governor Monday Okpebholo of allocating N6 billion to compensate “Fulani terrorists” and betraying Edo people. The government described the claims as inciting, malicious, and aimed at sowing ethnic division.
“We consider this publication not only inciting but also a vile attempt by a terrorist group to distort facts, sow ethnic division, and destabilise the peace and unity of Edo State,” said Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Okpebholo, in a statement on Thursday, April 24. The government denied any N6 billion compensation, calling the narrative fictitious and misleading.
The statement clarified that Okpebholo’s administration prioritises citizen safety and the rule of law, rejecting allegations of handing over vigilantes to “Fulani authorities” as baseless.
“IPOB’s attempt to incite ethnic violence is criminal and rejected by Edo people,” Itua said, highlighting the state’s unity and hospitality.
The government accused IPOB of causing thousands of deaths through its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network, and dismissed its call for Southern Governors’ bravery as laughable. “A group that murders, maims, and imposes illegal sit-at-home orders in the South-East cannot pretend to care about justice,” the statement added.
Edo urged security agencies to investigate the publication’s authors and vowed to pursue peace and inclusive governance. “We stand with the people. We stand for the truth. And we reject terrorism in every form,” Itua concluded.