List of Reasons Explains the News That Okpebholo Demands Apology from 2 PDP Chieftains Over Defamatory Remarks

Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has issued a five-day ultimatum to Chris Nehikhare, the Edo State Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Shedrach Udugbai, a chieftain of the party, demanding an immediate and unreserved apology for alleged defamatory statements made against him. The governor, through his legal representatives, contends that these remarks were false, malicious, and intended to tarnish his reputation.

The controversy began when Nehikhare released a statement on March 10, 2025, accusing Governor Okpebholo of attempting to bribe lawmakers to defect from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress (APC). In the press release titled “Edo PDP Condemns Okpebholo’s N200m Bribery Ploy to Buy Defection of Each Assembly Member,” Nehikhare alleged that the governor was offering N200 million per legislator and N2 million to each councillor from the 18 local government areas in a bid to lure them into the APC. Udugbai, on his part, reinforced these claims on an ITV program aired on March 13, where he asserted that the governor had bribed three PDP lawmakers with N200 million each to switch allegiance to the APC.

In response, Governor Okpebholo’s legal representatives, Dr. Blessing Agbomhere and Taiwo Elizabeth Olorunfemi, described the allegations as completely unfounded and defamatory. They argued that the statements suggested the governor was corrupt and engaged in unethical practices, thereby damaging his reputation. According to them, the statements painted the governor as a dishonest individual who relies on bribery to govern and manage public affairs. The legal team further noted that these remarks, widely circulated on social media platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram, exacerbated the reputational harm inflicted on the governor.

The pre-action notice emphasized that Governor Okpebholo has consistently demonstrated integrity and prudence in managing state resources. It highlighted his previous tenure as a senator, where he was recognized for his legislative contributions without any record of corruption or misconduct. The legal team pointed out that Okpebholo was nominated as the APC governorship candidate due to his exemplary track record, which contradicts the allegations made against him.

In light of these accusations, the governor’s lawyers stressed that their client had never been arrested, charged, or convicted of any financial misconduct. They found it puzzling that the PDP chieftains would implicate him in an internal party issue related to the defection of its lawmakers. The notice argued that the allegations were a calculated attempt to damage the governor’s image and mislead the public.

The governor is now demanding a formal apology from Nehikhare and Udugbai within five days, failing which legal action will be initiated. The legal representatives stated that their client’s reputation must be restored and that he remains committed to serving Edo State with transparency and accountability. They also condemned the spread of false information, warning that defamation would not be tolerated.

The situation has sparked discussions within Edo State’s political circles, with some observers seeing it as an attempt to discredit the governor, while others argue it reflects deeper political tensions within the PDP. As the deadline for the apology approaches, political analysts are closely watching whether the PDP chieftains will retract their statements or face legal consequences.