Osarodion Ogie, the running mate to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Edo State, Asue Ighodalo, has denied reports suggesting he has defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a statement released on Friday through his aide, Blessing Agbo, Ogie dismissed the online claims as false and malicious. He stressed that he never held any meeting or discussion with APC stakeholders and reaffirmed his loyalty to the PDP.
Ogie, a former Secretary to the Edo State Government, described the rumour as a calculated attempt by political mischief-makers, whom he accused of colluding with INEC and the judiciary to deny the people of Edo the opportunity to be governed by what he described as “the most visionary and competent team.”
The statement read, “We have been made aware of a misleading post currently circulating on social media, falsely claiming that our respected father and political leader, Osarodion Ogie, has decamped to the All Progressives Congress. This falsehood, shared by one ‘Ohio’, is not only deceitful but full of calculated lies and manipulation.”
It continued, “Let it be known that Osarodion Ogie, the esteemed running mate to Asue Ighodalo, remains a committed and loyal member of the People’s Democratic Party.”
“At no point has he considered, initiated, or even entertained the idea of defecting to the APC. Any reports suggesting otherwise should be disregarded in their entirety.”
“We urge the public, supporters, and lovers of democracy to ignore these baseless rumours, stand firm and stay focused. The truth will always prevail and history will vindicate those who stood for it.”
The statement comes amid heightened political tension following the fallout of the Edo 2024 governorship election.
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