Edo deputy governor denies cult allegations, labels claims as defamatory

Edo State Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa, has publicly dismissed recent allegations linking him to a secret cult, calling the claims baseless, malicious, and defamatory.

In a statement released on Friday, Idahosa responded to a viral video on social media in which one Emmanuel Agbogun accused him and other notable figures in Edo State of belonging to secret cult groups.

The deputy governor strongly condemned the allegations, describing them as an attempt to tarnish his reputation and distract from his work in government.

“My attention has been drawn to a video circulating on social media, in which one Emmanuel Agbogun falsely accuses me, Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Dennis Idahosa, the Deputy Governor of Edo State, of being a member of a secret cult. In the said publication, Mr. Agbogun mentioned my name and those of other notable citizens of Edo State, alleging that we are members of various cult groups in the State,” the deputy governor stated.

He described the accusations as “spurious, defamatory, malicious, unfounded, and grossly misleading,” emphasizing that they were aimed at damaging his reputation and distracting the government’s fight against cultism.

“I categorically state that these accusations are spurious, defamatory, malicious, unfounded, and grossly misleading. They are a deliberate attempt to tarnish my hard-earned reputation and to undermine my unwavering dedication to public service. These allegations also seek to distract this administration’s ongoing efforts to combat cultism and restore peace and order in Edo State,” he said.

Idahosa stressed that he has never been involved in any cult-related activities, reiterating his commitment to public service, transparency, and integrity.

“The claim that I am affiliated with any secret cult group is entirely false and baseless. I vehemently deny any involvement, both past or present in cult-related activities.

“As a public servant and the current Deputy Governor of Edo State, I have always upheld the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability in serving the good people of Edo State and Nigeria at large.”
He warned that he would pursue legal redress against what he described as a slanderous attack.

“Let me again reiterate that I consider this publication not only slanderous but also a direct attack on my character. I will not treat it lightly and will pursue all legal avenues to ensure that such defamation is addressed within the full extent of the law. This administration remains firmly committed to its zero-tolerance policy on cultism and other societal vices.”

The deputy governor also reaffirmed his Christian faith and encouraged citizens to join the fight against cultism.
“For the avoidance of doubt, I am not, and have never been, a member of any secret cult. I am a Christian and a steadfast believer in the teachings of Jesus Christ.

“I urge all well-meaning citizens of Edo State to remain vigilant and continue supporting our collective efforts to eradicate cultism and uphold the values of peace, justice, and development.”