Rev Olu “MAINTAIN” : PDP Spokesman Seeks Empathy Over  Libelious Suit Against Dennis Idahosa

Rev Olu “MAINTAIN” : PDP Spokesman Seeks Empathy Over  Libelious Suit Against Dennis Idahosa

By Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah

Tensions are rising between the PDP’s spokesperson for the 2024 Edo gubernatorial elections and the APC’s deputy gubernatorial candidate as the upcoming polls draw near.

The source of the conflict stems from the actions of the PDP’s campaign spokesperson, Rev Olu Martins, who, in an effort to showcase his abilities or perhaps validate his appointment, made numerous mistakes.

One of these missteps included disseminating defamatory statements about Hon Dennis Idahosa, who serves as the current legislator representing Ovia Federal Constituency in the National Assembly and is also the deputy gubernatorial candidate for the APC.

In response, Hon Dennis Idahosa initiated legal action against Martins, filing a writ of summons on May 3. Idahosa is seeking N2 billion in general, punitive, aggravated, and exemplary damages from the defendant. Additionally, Idahosa has demanded N15 million to cover the costs of the legal proceedings.

Caught in a state of confusion, Rev Olu “Maintain” sorry, Martins responded with a sympathetic tone, seemingly attempting to garner public sympathy instead of mounting a robust defense in court.

He began by dismissing the summons as merely “so-called” and then proceeded to draw comparisons between the insults endured by Goodluck Jonathan and other leaders. This was evidently an unsuccessful attempt to diminish the seriousness of the defamation lawsuit against him, reducing it to the level of mere social media insults.

It’s quite ironic for him to downplay the gravity of the situation in this manner, especially considering that he is fully aware that his alleged defamatory statement impugns not only the personal character of the lawmaker but also undermines the integrity of someone who serves not just as a representative of his immediate family, but as a public figure accountable to his constituents.

Comparing him to an intolerant individual akin to his political party, the APC, represents a nadir for someone attempting to garner unwarranted sympathy. It’s as if we are oblivious to the fact that in the annals of political leadership, no one has endured as much criticism as the current President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, both before and during campaigns, and even now, while holding the position of a sitting president.

The last time I checked, Tinubu remains the leader of the APC, so where do his lamentations and comparisons arise from?

In his purportedly unrelated comparisons, he continued to reference mentors and notable figures who share a surname with Dennis, such as Lord Dennis and Archbishop Benson Idahosa. One can’t help but question the relevance of such comparisons, as if the public cannot distinguish between insults and defamation of character.

Olu Martins should emulate Olu Maintain and refrain from speaking extensively when he’s unable to substantiate his claims. The electoral campaigns have barely commenced, yet he is already confronted with a 5 billion lawsuit.

Olu Martins ought to recognize that the electorate in Edo are more discerning now and will base their decision on the candidates’ capabilities and competence to enact positive change for the people. Engaging in a campaign rife with slander and distorted narratives will not influence the voters’ decisions.

At this point, the PDP should ideally be highlighting Governor Godwin Obaseki’s achievements and the positive impact he has had on the people as part of their campaign strategy.

However, perhaps due to a shortage of substantial accomplishments from the current administration, they have opted for dishonesty and propaganda in an attempt to diminish the influence of Senator Monday Okpebholo and Dennis Idahosa’s candidacy.

The escalating conflict between Rev Olu Martins, the PDP’s spokesperson, and Hon Dennis Idahosa, the APC’s deputy gubernatorial candidate, underscores the pitfalls of political rhetoric and legal battles.

Martins’ attempts to downplay a defamation lawsuit with sympathy-seeking tactics have backfired, highlighting the need for honesty and integrity in political discourse. As the Edo elections approach, both sides must prioritize accountability and transparency to win the trust of the electorate and deliver meaningful change.