National Mourning: Edo PDP Faults Okpebholo’s Celebration

…Says EDSG oblivious to national grief

By Simeon OSAJIE

The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has reacted to Governor Monday Okpebholo’s celebration of Supreme Court victory complete with a live band – dancing and reveling, while Nigerians were still coming to terms with the loss of a former President and a prominent national figure, Alhaji Muhammadu Buhari.

This was contained in press statement signed by Chris Osa Nehikhare, State Publicity Secretary of the PDP Caretaker Committee, and made available to newsmen in Benin.

The statement read:

“The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) strongly condemns the callous and insensitive jamboree organized by the Edo State Government under the leadership of Senator Monday Okpebholo, at a time the nation was mourning the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

“It is deeply disturbing and utterly disrespectful that while Nigerians were still coming to terms with the loss of a former President and a prominent national figure, the Edo State Governor and his associates chose to throw a public celebration complete with a live band—dancing and reveling, as if in mockery of the moment.

“This shameful display not only reflects a gross insensitivity to the mood of the nation but also dishonours the memory of a man who, despite political differences, remains a symbol of Nigeria’s democratic journey. Regardless of former President Buhari’s stance during the 2020 elections, his passing deserved solemnity, not celebration. Especially, when he insisted that democratic process must not be compromised and interfered with.

“The Edo PDP extends its heartfelt condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Buhari family, and all Nigerians on the passing of an uncommon democrat, patriot, and elder statesman.”