By joshua CRPP Berates Afegbua Over Stadium Stamped, Says Edo Govt Must Explain
By Ikhili Ebalu, Benin city
The Coalition of Registered Political Parties (CRPP) has fired back at the Edo State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Prince Kassim Afegbua, accusing him of sidestepping critical questions surrounding the recent Children’s Day stampede at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium and resorting instead to attacks on opposition voices.
In a statement signed by its National Chairman, Dr. Samson Isibor, and Secretary, Hon. Nkama Waribe, the coalition said its earlier comments were intended to draw attention to the welfare of students who reportedly collapsed during the incident and were subsequently taken to various hospitals for medical attention.
The group expressed concern that rather than providing Edo residents and parents of the affected children with a detailed account of what transpired, the commissioner allegedly chose to direct criticism at the coalition and its leadership.
According to the CRPP, the office of the Commissioner for Information and Strategy carries the responsibility of informing, educating and enlightening citizens on government policies and actions, noting that such a mandate should not be used to engage in political attacks against critics or opposition groups.
The coalition also defended its status as a pressure group, rejecting Afegbua’s reported characterization of the organisation as a political party. It explained that bodies such as the Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP), Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP), and similar organisations function as advocacy and pressure groups committed to promoting accountability and democratic governance.
CRPP maintained that its role includes scrutinising government actions and drawing public attention to issues affecting citizens, irrespective of political considerations.
The group further criticised the commissioner’s approach to public communication, alleging that he often focuses on discrediting opposition figures instead of addressing substantive concerns raised about government policies and performance.
It warned that persistent attacks on opposition groups and critics could deepen public dissatisfaction and expose the government to greater scrutiny over issues affecting the welfare of Edo people.
The coalition urged the commissioner to concentrate on providing transparent information to the public and addressing concerns arising from the Children’s Day incident rather than engaging in personal attacks.
“A government that is accountable to its people should be willing to answer legitimate questions and address public concerns in a transparent manner,” the statement added.