Enugu State Government responds to claims about Peter Obi's campaign venue

The Enugu State Government has denied claims that Peter Obi, the presidential candidate for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), was stopped from using Michael Okpara Square for a campaign rally.

Reports suggested that Governor Peter Mbah told Rita Mbah, the Chairperson of the Enugu State Tourism Board, to deny Mr Obi and the NDC access to the venue for their rally.

The tourism board manages the venue, which belongs to the Enugu State Government.

On Thursday, Ms Mbah released a statement to clear up the allegations.

"I wish to clarify that the governor issued no such directive and had no involvement whatsoever in the matter," she said.

She explained that a man came to the manager of Michael Okpara Square while she was present and asked to use the facility.

According to her, the man was told that the venue was already booked for weeks for government and other events.

"I explained the booking situation to him. He was, however, adamant and practically forced the receipt of the letter on me."

"He subsequently resorted to verbal abuse, which continued even after I disengaged from the conversation. More than five persons witnessed the incident," she added.

Ms Mbah also mentioned that she and the manager informed the man that other groups, including religious organizations, could not use the venue because they applied after the dates were already booked.

"I received no instruction or communication from Governor Mbah concerning the request."

"The matter was handled strictly in accordance with the facility’s existing booking schedule," she said.

The chairperson stated that it is unacceptable for people to "manufacture a story," credit it to the governor, and present it as truth "without a single documentary evidence to substantiate the claim."

"The public deserves facts, not fabricated narratives designed to whip up political sentiments," she concluded.