By Ogochukwu Isioma
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State has raised the alarm over alleged plans by individuals to stage sponsored protests in different parts of the state this week.
The party claims that the demonstrations are not genuine expressions of public concern but are being orchestrated by certain individuals and leaders within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to disrupt the state’s peace and stability.
In a statement on Wednesday signed by its Chairman, Jarret Tenebe, the Edo APC expressed concerns about “a pattern of misinformation and deliberate falsehoods” being circulated ahead of the planned protests.
The party warned that these activities are intended to incite unrest and undermine the progress achieved since Senator Monday Okpebholo assumed office as the Governor of Edo State.
“I wish to unequivocally state that Governor Okpebholo respects the fundamental rights of citizens to peaceful assembly and expression of grievances, as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” Tenebe said.
“However, we have observed a pattern of misinformation and deliberate falsehoods being circulated in the lead-up to these planned demonstrations.
“These patterns suggest that the intention is not to engage in constructive dialogue or to highlight legitimate issues, but rather to sow discord, incite unrest, and undermine the progress Edo State has been making since Senator Monday Okpebholo assumed office as the Governor of Edo State,” the statement addd.
The APC chairman claimed that the party has identified individuals and groups allegedly behind the planned protests, insisting that their goal is to create unnecessary tension and potentially trigger a breakdown of law and order.
The party, however, urged citizens to remain vigilant and to avoid participating in the demonstrations. Tenebe reaffirmed APC’s commitment to addressing legitimate concerns through established governmental channels.
“The APC urges all law-abiding citizens to be vigilant and to distance themselves from these sponsored protests. We understand that genuine concerns may exist within our society, and we remain committed to addressing these through legitimate channels of communication and engagement.
“We encourage anyone with genuine grievances to approach the appropriate Government agencies for dialogue and resolution. The APC urges the good people of Edo State that the administration of Governor Okpebholo is fully prepared to ensure the safety and security of all residents,” the statement added.
The ruling party revealed that, following “credible intelligence” on the planned protests, law enforcement agencies in the state have been placed on high alert to prevent any potential disorder.
“We will not allow any individual or group, regardless of their motives, to disrupt the peace and progress of Edo State,” the statement warned.
“Law enforcement agencies have been told to be on high alert and will take all necessary measures within the ambit of the law to prevent any breakdown of order and to protect lives and property.”
The APC, therefore, called on parents, guardians, community leaders and stakeholders to advise their wards and members to refrain from participating n the said protests.
“Do not allow yourselves to be used as pawns in the hands of those who seek to destabilize our State for their own selfish ends,” the party warned.
“The State APC remains focused on supporting the Okpebholo administration in delivering good governance, implementing people-oriented policies, and fostering sustainable development across the State. We will not be distracted by the divisive tactics of a few individuals.
“We urge all citizens to remain calm, go about their lawful businesses, and continue to support the efforts of the Government in building a prosperous and peaceful Edo State for all,” the statement concluded.
