Esan Youths Caution Against Slander, Defend Okpebholo Over Manipulated Image

…Reaffirm Support for Okpebholo Administration, Eight-Year Esan Agenda

Kingsley Ohens reporting for Urbanscoopnews

The Esan Youths Organization has cautioned individuals and groups against what it described as a growing attempt to deploy manipulated digital content, misleading narratives and personal attacks to discredit the administration of Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo.

The organization was reacting to a trending image purporting to show the Governor holding a programme booklet upside down during an official engagement in Asaba, describing the image as a manipulated representation designed to ridicule the Governor and mislead members of the public.

According to the group, the controversy highlights the growing danger of digital misinformation in an era where photographs and videos can be altered and presented as authentic materials for political or personal purposes.

The Esan youths stressed that there is a clear distinction between legitimate criticism and deliberate slander, noting that while public officials are subject to scrutiny and constructive criticism, the fabrication of false materials intended to damage a person’s reputation should not be confused with responsible civic engagement.

The organization therefore cautioned those behind the circulation of the manipulated image, as well as individuals who may knowingly amplify such content, to desist from actions capable of deepening political hostility and misleading the public.

“Criticism is an essential part of democracy, but criticism must be based on facts. There is a big difference between holding a government accountable and deliberately manufacturing falsehoods to ridicule or tarnish the image of a public official,” the organization stated.

The group urged journalists, social media influencers, content creators and members of the public to exercise greater responsibility before sharing photographs, videos and other digital materials, particularly when such materials are being used to make serious allegations against public office holders.

The Esan youths maintained that public discourse should focus on governance, policies, programmes and measurable achievements rather than manipulated images and sensational narratives capable of distracting citizens from issues that directly affect their welfare.

The organization also reaffirmed its total support for the Senator Monday Okpebholo-led administration in Edo State, expressing confidence in the Governor’s leadership and his commitment to the development of the state.

According to the group, its support is anchored not merely on political affiliation but on what it described as the broader interests of the Esan people and the need for the people of Esan to consolidate their political leadership opportunity in Edo State.

The organization reiterated its commitment to the Esan Agenda of an eight-year tenure for Esan to lead Edo State, urging Esan people across political divides to protect the opportunity and work collectively toward ensuring continuity of the political project.

It called on Esan youths to remain united, politically conscious and constructive in their engagement, stressing that the current political moment requires maturity, strategic thinking and a focus on long-term development rather than divisive propaganda.

The group further appealed to supporters of the administration to respond to criticism with facts and evidence, rather than insults or counterattacks, saying that the best defence of any administration is its record of performance and its ability to communicate effectively with the people.

The Esan Youths Organization said it would continue to support initiatives that promote peace, development, good governance and the collective interest of the Esan people, while encouraging all stakeholders to make responsible contributions to Edo State’s political and developmental discourse.