Kogi State Deputy Governor, Comrade Joel Salifu, has distanced himself from allegations that thugs loyal to him attacked members of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Ejule, Ofu Local Government Area.
The accusation came from Omera Opaluwa, an SDP member, who claimed that the assault occurred during a political meeting in Ejule.
Reacting in a statement from Lokoja, the Deputy Governor’s Press Secretary, Unubi Emmanuel, described the allegations as “unfounded and baseless.”
Emmanuel stressed that the Deputy Governor is fully occupied with state affairs and is not involved in “petty issues of conflicts.”
The statement called on SDP supporters to prioritize internal unity and engage in genuine political discourse instead of resorting to accusations and blame.
It further highlighted the ongoing factional struggle within the SDP in Kogi, noting that the party is divided into two factions led by separate chairmen, often embroiled in disputes over control of the party’s structure.
“The aggrieved faction likely initiated the assault and caused the injuries,” the statement said.
The Deputy Governor’s office urged the SDP to avoid bitterness, falsehoods, and incitement and to focus on strengthening democracy through constructive engagement.