Allegation of stealing 21 vehicles, properties of Edo government while he was Chief Adviser on Economy to Godwin Obaseki during the latter’s time as governor has sparked angry reaction from Asue Ighodalo.
Ighodalo, the People’s Democratic Party governorship candidate in this year’s off-season election chaired Alaghodaro Economic Summit Ltd, an investment company that Edo had interest in.
Jarrett Tenebe, Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state in a an interview accused Ighodalo of stealing the referenced vehicles during that time.
The allegation is viewed as defamation by the accused with his lawyer, Banwo & Ighodalo chamber about to institute legal action against Tenebe.
In a letter dated December 18, 2024, and signed by Abimbola Akeredolu (SAN), the firm condemned Tenebe’s accusations, describing them as “libelous, reckless, and unfounded.”
The firm noted that these allegations persist despite a December 11 letter demanding an immediate retraction and apology. Tenebe has now been given three days to withdraw the statements or face formal court proceedings.
In a separate statement signed by Erhabor Emokpae, the Team Asue Media Organisation (TAMO) refuted the allegations, describing them as a calculated smear campaign aimed at distracting the public and tarnishing Mr. Ighodalo’s reputation.
TAMO clarified that Alaghodaro, which Ighodalo chaired, is a private-sector-led initiative focused on fostering economic growth and investments in Edo State.
The statement also highlighted Ighodalo’s integrity and selflessness, noting that he has personally funded his expenses throughout his 16 years of public service, including his time as Chairman of Alaghodaro.
The accusations regarding the theft of government vehicles were dismissed as baseless, absurd, and unsupported by any evidence.
Banwo & Ighodalo reiterated its resolve to pursue all legal remedies if the defamatory statements are not retracted within the stipulated timeframe.
