The member representing Oju/Obi Federal Constituency, Hon. David Ogewu, has denied allegations of complicity in the Bonta -Okpute communal crisis in Benue State.
Hon Ogewu was accused by a group known as DIIV Progressive Agenda, led by Dr. James Amove Ukpoko, that he is involved in sponsoring the ongoing conflict between Ukpute and Bonta communities in Benue State.
He described these claims as unfounded, divisive and an attempt to mislead the public, emphasizing his dedication to fostering peace and unity in the region.
In a statement by his media team, Ogewu reiterated his efforts to promote harmony between Ukpute and Bonta communities, citing his work with security agencies and motions in the National Assembly to bring attention to the crisis.
He commended Governor Hyacinth Alia’s ongoing peace efforts and has consistently encouraged community reconciliation.
The statement reads below.
” Rt. Hon. Ogewu is particularly disturbed by the spurious claims made by the group against him and the unity of the people, alleging that he is a sponsor of the crisis and that he has used his position in the National Assembly to influence the operation of the military in the region.
“He wishes to categorically discard these allegations as false, distortionary, and a deliberate attempt to discredit his relentless efforts towards restoring peace to the region.
“Rt Hon David Agada Ogewu remains committed to engendering the unity, peace, and harmonious coexistence of the Ukpute and Bonta communities.
“He sees the lingering crisis as unfortunate and unnecessary and has continued to work with security agencies both within and outside Benue State for the sole purpose of peace and the return of normalcy to the warring communities.
“Rt. Hon Ogewu has carried on with this mission by raising motions in the National Assembly to draw the attention of the relevant authorities to the crisis and to provide a framework for both the state and federal boundary commissions on the issue.
“He has also engaged with the Ukpute people on several occasions and urged them to embrace reconciliation in recognition of the efforts of Gov. Hyacinth Iormem Alia to resolve the issue permanently.
“Rt. Hon. David Ogewu has been at the forefront of the advocacy for peaceful coexistence and amicable resolution of disputes in Oju/Obi Federal Constituency and will never fund or support violent clashes on any ground.
“This explains why he has continued to engage with security agencies, including the military, police, and other relevant authorities, in the drive to achieve peace in the region.
“He feels that the claims by the group that he sponsors the crisis are not only inciting but also point to an insidious ploy to frustrate efforts to achieve a lasting solution and restore permanent peace to the communities.
“He has therefore urged the group to join him in the drive for peaceful coexistence between the Bonta and Ukpute communities rather than stoke sentiments that would further weaken the bond of unity among the people.”
Ukpute-Bonta crisis in Benue: Ogewu distances self from killings
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