Engage in constructive dialogue rather than blackmail- Edo APC tells PDP

The Edo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has advised the PDP to engage in constructive dialogue rather than resort to accusations of lawlessness.
Edo APC also accused the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state of attempting to blackmail and discredit Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration following the suspension of the 18 local government chairmen by the state House of Assembly.
In response to comments from the PDP’s caretaker chairman, Tony Aziegbemi, who criticized the suspension as an “extermination of constitutional democracy and lawlessness,” APC acting chairman Jarret Tenabe said the move was necessary to ensure order and stability in the state.
“The suspension of the local government chairmen and their deputies was a legal action taken by the state House of Assembly to promote good governance, and the APC supports it,” Tenabe stated. He emphasized that Governor Okpebholo’s mandate was clear and would not be derailed by attempts at blackmail or distractions from the opposition.
Tenabe dismissed the PDP’s allegations, labeling them as unfounded and libelous. “The PDP’s reaction is a desperate attempt to undermine the Governor and the state government, not a genuine concern for the welfare of the people,” he added.
Tenabe expressed support for the actions of the councilors in the affected local government councils, stating that they acted in the best interests of their people by impeaching the suspended chairmen.
He also called for anti-graft agencies to investigate the alleged mismanagement of funds by the suspended chairmen.
Governor Okpebholo has a duty to ensure that all tiers of government operate within the law in Edo State,” Tenabe said.
Reflecting on the past, Tenabe reminded the PDP of its own history in the state, accusing the former PDP governor, Godwin Obaseki, of undermining democratic processes by refusing to swear in 14 out of 24 members of the state House of Assembly for four years.
Tenabe concluded by calling on opposition parties and civil society groups to collaborate with Governor Okpebholo to address any concerns and ensure the continued success of democracy in Edo State.