The Chairman of Ahoada West Local Government Council, Eugene Epelle has denied the allegation that he mobilized his brothers and his aides to assault a lady over an online post she made about the deplorable condition of a secondary school in the area.
The lady whose name was given as Winnie Miller had narrated that the chairman apparently got offended by the post and invaded her family house at Odiokwu, inflicting injuries on her.
However in a statement by the Press Secretary to the chairman, Dennis Lot, he described the lady’s account as fabricated, claiming that the chairman did not attack the lady.
“We categorically state that this allegation is false, malicious, and deliberately distorted to incite public anger and damage the reputation of the chairman.
“For the sake of clarity, the chairman did not at any time lead anyone, whether brothers, associates, or security personnel to assault, bully, or intimidate the said accuser.
“What transpired is being grossly misrepresented”, the statement maintained.
According to the statement, the chairman went on a routine visit to the mother of the lady and in the course of discussion with the woman, “the young lady reportedly approached the chairman unprovoked, hurled insults at him, and used unprintable names”
The statement further said despite the provocation, the chairman maintained composure and continued his discussion with the mother of the lady without responding to the insults.
It claimed that the lady lost her balance as she was being restrained from further insulting the chairman and fell down, sustaining injuries.
“At no point did the chairman engage in any physical confrontation. He neither touched nor instructed anyone to touch her.
“We challenge the accuser and those amplifying this narrative to present credible evidence—video footage, photographs, or any verifiable material showing the chairman leading or participating in any assault as alleged.
“In this era of mobile devices and constant recording, such serious claims should be backed by clear proof.
“It is also noteworthy that this is not the first time the said accuser has publicly attempted to malign or embarrass the chairman within the community.
“Nevertheless, Eugene Epelle has continued to exercise restraint and maturity in handling repeated provocations,” the press secretary said.
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The statement wondered why the lady who is a media aide to the chairman would be making false statements and destructive remarks against her boss “if not for ulterior motives”
Regarding the condition of the school in question, the press secretary said while concerns about infrastructure are legitimate and deserving of attention,the administration of public secondary schools falls under the jurisdiction of the Rivers State government.
He pointed out that the chairman is open to constructive dialogue and collaboration aimed at improving community development, including educational facilities.
He insisted that attempts to twist a peaceful visit into a narrative of brutality are unfortunate and appear calculated to create unnecessary political tension in Odiokwu and across Ahoada West.
