In reaction to recent accusations that he was involved in cult-related activities in Iruekpen, Rt. Hon. Marcus Onobun, Member representing Esan West, Esan Central, and Igueben Federal Constituency, has issued this press statement. The declaration seeks to unequivocally refute and elucidate false information that is presently being spread both online and offline. The dissemination of these accusations, according to Hon. Onobun, is a deliberate attempt to divert attention away from his record of public service and ongoing developmental contributions. He reiterates his steadfast dedication to peace, youth development, public safety, and lawful engagement. The public, media outlets, and pertinent parties are advised to give this issue the serious consideration it requires by confirming the facts before making assumptions or disseminating baseless statements. Hon. Onobun’s steadfast commitment to justice, truth, and democratic principles in the face of politically driven attempts to discredit him is reflected in this statement.
PRESS STATEMENT
RE: DISCLAIMER ON ALLEGED CULT-RELATED ISSUES IN IRUEKPEN
My attention has been drawn to some unfounded and malicious rumours being circulated across various quarters, both online and offline, alleging my involvement or association with cult-related activities in Iruekpen. I, Rt. Hon. Marcus Onobun, honorable member, representing Esan West, Esan Central and Igueben Federal constituency categorically and unequivocally refute claims of any such association or involvement.
1. For the avoidance of doubt, I am not directly or indirectly involved in cultism nor have I ever supported, encouraged, financed, or participated in any activity that promotes it in any form whatsoever.
2. These allegations are not only false and baseless and unfounded but they also appear to be politically motivated, attempts to tarnish my hard-earned reputation, distract from the developmental strides we are making, and undermine the trust and confidence the good people of Iruekpen and beyond have reposed in me.
3. The last time I was in Edo state was in April 22nd, 2025. What I can deduce from this allegation is to lay a foundation for their wicked and clandestine plan to silence the opposition.
4. I am a firm believer in the rule of law, democratic principles, and peaceful co-existence. Throughout my public service career, as erstwhile Speaker of the Edo state house of Assembly, I have championed initiatives aimed at empowering our youth through education, skills acquisition, mentorship, and community development—initiatives that are fundamentally at odds with the menace of cultism and social vices.
5. Let it be on record that from reliable sources, I am informed that the clash arose between two(2) indigenes of Iruekpen community at a brothel within the cattle market and not any where close to my residence.
6. The security and safety of our people tops my priorities as a federal lawmaker, as no development sees the light of the day in an unsafe environment, thus, the recently commissioned Police station in Iruekpen community.
7. I call on the media and the general public to exercise due diligence and verify fact before spreading information capable of causing panic and reputation damage.
8. To those behind these malicious fabrications, I urge you to desist from the politics of character assassination. Our community deserves leaders and citizens who promote unity, progress, and constructive dialogue not divisiveness and falsehood.
9. I remain committed to the service of my people and to the peace, growth, and development of Iruekpen as my immediate community and the entire federal constituency at large. No amount of smear campaigns will deter me from fulfilling my mandate and standing for truth, justice, and good governance.
Thank you.
Rt. Hon. Marcus Onobun KSC
_Member, Representing Esan West, Esan Central and Igueben Federal Constituency_8/06/2025
