Rt. Hon. David Agada Ogewu, member representing Oju/Obi Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has denied claims that he referred to the youths of Igede nation in Benue State as “fools.”

The controversy arose after the Igede Youths Council (IYC) criticized Ogewu for allegedly making disparaging remarks against the local youth.

In a press release from his media office, Ogewu clarified that his comments were directed at a small group of sponsored individuals who staged a protest against Senator Abba Moro shortly after the senator lost his two sons.

The statement explained:

• Ogewu’s description of the protest organizers as engaging in “foolishness and lacking empathy” was not intended for the entire Igede youth population.
• His remarks were motivated by a desire to protect the moral reputation of the Igede nation, as the timing of the protest was seen as insensitive.
• Several people from outside Oju/Obi Constituency had reportedly expressed disappointment over the protest, reinforcing Ogewu’s concerns.

The lawmaker’s media office also criticized the publication by Comrade Andyson Iji Egbodo and Smith Akoko, calling it a calculated attempt to tarnish Ogewu’s reputation and mislead the public.

Ogewu urged the public to disregard the allegations and warned the individuals behind the publication to stop being used by political actors seeking to create division in Oju/Obi Federal Constituency.