By Winnie Onu, Makurdi
The member representing Oju/Obi Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, David Ogewu, has denied reports alleging that he described Igede youths as “fools.”
In a statement issued on Sunday by the Liberation Media, the official communication arm of the lawmaker, the group said the publication circulating on social media and online platforms, particularly was “a deliberate attempt to malign” Ogewu’s reputation.
According to the statement, Ogewu’s remarks were taken out of context and directed only at a few individuals who organised a protest against Senator Abba Moro, barely two days after the senator lost his two sons.
“Hon. Ogewu merely described the timing and actions of the protest organisers as foolishness and lacking empathy, not the Igede youths as a whole,” the statement clarified.
The Liberation Media also dismissed the group that issued the statement against the lawmaker, the “Igede Youth Council” as “self-acclaimed and unrecognised,” alleging that it was being used by political detractors to create disaffection.
The rejoinder further cautioned the signatories to the said publication, against being used by “politicians who thrive on division and mischief.”
It added that their actions were intended to undermine the developmental efforts being championed in the constituency.
The statement explained that Ogewu’s comments were motivated by genuine concern for the image of the Igede nation, noting that the protest was ill-timed and insensitive given Senator Moro’s bereavement.
It stated that Ogewu had long raised a motion on the deplorable condition of roads in Oju/Obi constituency, including the Otukpo–Obi–Oju road, and that work was already ongoing on some sections following federal approval.
The Liberation Media therefore urged the public to disregard the “false and mischievous” publication, describing it as an attempt to tarnish the lawmaker’s image.
“Rt. Hon. Ogewu remains committed to the unity, progress, and liberation of the Igede people and will not be distracted by baseless propaganda,” the statement added.
