Edo government denounces John Mayaki’s unauthorized statements

The Edo State Government has firmly disassociated itself from comments made by John Mayaki, a former Chief Press Secretary to ex-Governor Godwin Obaseki. In a statement signed by Fred Itua, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, the government clarified that Mayaki’s remarks do not represent the Governor’s Office and urged the public to rely solely on information from official channels.

“Mr. Mayaki, as a citizen of Nigeria, has the right to express his views on any matter. However, his personal views should not be attributed to Governor Okpebholo,” the statement read. “The Governor’s official spokespersons have been duly appointed and announced by Senator Monday Okpebholo. They can be reached through their verified contact information.

“The public is advised to verify any information attributed to the Governor through official channels only.”

The government’s statement comes in the wake of Mayaki’s recent public praise of Governor Okpebholo, a marked departure from his earlier critical stance. During the gubernatorial campaign, Mayaki was one of Okpebholo’s fiercest critics, accusing him of nepotism, incompetence, and evasion of public debates.

In one report, Mayaki described Okpebholo as a puppet of political overlords intent on reclaiming control of Edo State’s resources. His recent shift has raised eyebrows, with political observers questioning his motives. In an interview with a national daily, he reportedly said Okpebholo “lacks even the most rudimentary understanding of what governance entails.” 

A source within Government House, speaking on condition of anonymity, suggested that Mayaki’s apparent about-face may be motivated by a personal agenda. “There’s fear that Mayaki is angling to replace the current Chief Press Secretary,” the source alleged. “His sudden praise-singing appears to be an attempt to curry favour, but there’s no space for him here. The APC is not a rehabilitation home.”

The insider also referenced Mayaki’s previous accusations against Governor Okpebholo, including claims that the Governor avoided public debates due to a perceived lack of mental acuity. “Mayaki’s actions have been described as unbecoming, akin to a dog returning to its vomit,” the source added.

The Edo Governorship Election Petition Tribunal looms large over the state’s political landscape, with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) challenging the legitimacy of Governor Okpebholo’s election. The government is working to solidify its defense amid public scrutiny and appears keen to avoid distractions that could undermine its case.

The statement distancing the administration from Mayaki’s remarks underscores a broader effort to maintain focus and credibility during this critical period.

As of press time, John Mayaki had not responded to requests for comment.