By Alltimepost.com
Following the violent attack, today on members of Edo Civil Society Organizations who were protesting the recent passage of the bill, amending the existing legislation on the Pension Rights of Governors and their Deputies by the state lawmakers, some fingers have been pointing to Osadebey Avenue as the sponsor of the attack.
In reaction, the government has denied the allegation in a press statement issued today by its Chief Press Secretary, Mr. John Mayaki. The statement reads:
Re-Edo Government Sponsored Thugs
The attention of Edo State Government has been drawn to a malicious report as regards the sponsoring of thugs to attack some persons who embarked on a protest march against the Mansion Bill which was recently passed by the State House of Assembly.
Suffice to say that this government is too decent and responsible to engage in anti-democratic means of sponsoring hoodlums to attack citizens which we swore to protect. This administration is too decent and focused on delivering democratic dividends to the people and will not condescend so low by resorting to violence.
We recognize the rights and freedom of citizens to express their opinion on public issues and would not do anything to infringe on that. We believe in popular participation, engagement and in the tenets of democracy.
There is no iota of truth in the report as government will not in any way attempt to gag the people’s freedom of expression, association and movement as enshrined in the Constitution.
Signed:
Mr. John Mayaki
Chief Press Secretary
Edo State Government
