Jibrin Isah Echocho, a senator from Kogi East, has referred to as unjust and malicious reports linking him to a crisis that broke out at a betting centre in Ajiolo Ojaji, in the Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The senator, who serves as the chair of the Senate Committee on Customs, questioned why some individuals would work so hard to malign his name in order to advance their own political agendas in a statement he released and made available to OBASANJO NEWS24 in Abuja on Friday.
In response to multiple media reports that said he was involved, he stated that he knew nothing about the incident and that there was no justification for him to have ordered the attack.
He claimed that after word of his involvement started to spread, an investigation revealed that the incident had actually started as a friendly argument at a betting shop that turned violent.
“I respond to these baseless allegations with great disappointment, which seem to be a desperate attempt by some politically motivated urchins to tarnish my reputation and discredit my service to the people of our great senatorial district,” the statement said.
“I want to correct the record and explain the circumstances leading up to the incident.
“The incident in question resulted from a dispute between some friends in a betting shop, not from the sensationalised and false versions that have been spread.
Unfortunately, this argument turned into a physical altercation. I send my sincere condolences to the individuals who were harmed in this sad occurrence as well as to their families.
“I want to make it clear that I categorically reject any type of violence or lawlessness. We must all cooperate to foster peace and understanding among our people because such behaviour has no place in our society.
“I beg anyone who are trying to use this tragic circumstance for political benefit to stop right away.
I want to reaffirm that I belong to everyone and that I will keep working tirelessly to promote love, togetherness, and peace among my constituents and all Nigerians. We must not allow divisive and hateful tactics to impede the success of our community.
“I remain dedicated to the cause of improving the lives of our people, which has always been my major priority.
“I made a heartfelt plea to those who are trying to use my name for political advantage to cease their actions during my visit to the victims of the fracas.”
The congressman pleaded with the citizens to abstain from violence, emphasising that “violence only serves to weaken the very fabric of our society and does more harm than good.”
“I want to reassure the residents in my constituency that these unfounded accusations won’t stop me. I’ll keep doing my best to serve you with honesty, integrity, and a dedication to the principles we hold in common.
“Together, we will overcome the obstacles in our path and create a future that is brighter and more prosperous for all.”
