By Kingsley Ohens
The Team Asue Media Organization (TAMO) has strongly condemned the persistent defamatory campaign led by the Acting Chairman of the Edo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Jarrett Tenebe, against Dr. Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the upcoming Edo State governorship election scheduled for September 21.
In a statement issued by TAMO’s spokesperson, Erhabor Emokpae, in Benin City on Wednesday, the group categorically refuted Tenebe’s allegations, describing them as “baseless, defamatory, and without any merit.”
TAMO dismissed Tenebe’s claims that Mr. Ighodalo “stole 21 government vehicles” and improperly awarded government contracts to his firm, Banwo & Ighodalo, as false, malicious, and unsubstantiated.
“This campaign of calumny orchestrated by Jarrett Tenebe aligns with his history of propagating blatant falsehoods and malicious accusations,” the statement read. “The allegations are entirely unfounded, lack evidence, and are a deliberate attempt to tarnish the impeccable reputation of Dr. Ighodalo.”
Clarifying the Allegations
TAMO emphasized that the Alaghodaro Economic Summit, chaired by Mr. Ighodalo, is a private-sector-led initiative established to promote investments and drive economic growth in Edo State. Contrary to Tenebe’s assertions, it is neither a government agency nor reliant on public funds.
The statement highlighted Ighodalo’s personal financial contributions to the initiative, noting that:
He has funded all his expenses throughout his tenure as Chairman.
On several occasions, he used personal resources to support Alaghodaro’s activities.
Over 16 years of public service under two governors, he never received allowances or emoluments.
TAMO further clarified that Banwo & Ighodalo, a globally recognized law firm, operates on professionalism and merit, and has never benefited from Ighodalo’s public service roles.
“The baseless claim that Mr. Ighodalo stole government vehicles is not only absurd but completely unfounded,” TAMO stated. “At no time was he allocated or involved in the misappropriation of government property.”
Legal Action
In response to the defamatory remarks, Mr. Ighodalo’s legal team has expanded the scope of defamation proceedings. Following a December 11, 2024, demand for a retraction and apology, Tenebe intensified his false claims in a December 17 interview with TMC TV/Radio. TAMO confirmed that court proceedings have now been initiated against Tenebe and others, including Mr. Kelly Okungbowa and Mr. Sunny Ekpetika Ekpeson, for their roles in spreading these fabrications.
Upholding Public Decency
TAMO called for civility in political discourse, urging public figures to prioritize truth and accountability over misinformation.
“Baseless accusations and deliberate misinformation harm public trust and weaken democratic institutions,” the statement read. “We urge well-meaning Nigerians to reject these falsehoods and focus on the facts.”
The group reaffirmed Ighodalo’s commitment to integrity, transparency, and the development of Edo State, concluding:
“Dr. Ighodalo remains focused on fostering growth and progress for the people of Edo State, undeterred by attempts to derail his vision.”
