The Enugu State Tourism Board has denied allegations that Governor Peter Mbah directed it to reject a request by former Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to use Michael Okpara Square for a campaign rally.
The Executive Chairman of the Board, Dame Rita Mbah, made the clarification in a press statement dated 12 November 2026.
Dame Mbah stated that Governor Mbah neither issued any directive nor had any involvement in the handling of the request for the use of the facility.
According to her, an individual approached the Manager of Michael Okpara Square, in her presence, to request the use of the venue but was informed that the facility had already been fully booked weeks in advance for government and other activities during the Christmas and New Year period.
She explained that the individual was subsequently informed of the booking arrangements but allegedly insisted on submitting the request letter and resorted to verbal abuse after being given an explanation.
The Tourism Board chairman further disclosed that more than five persons witnessed the incident, adding that other applicants, including religious organisations, had equally been unable to secure the facility because they submitted their applications after the available dates had been booked.
She maintained that the decision was based strictly on the existing booking schedule and was not influenced by any political consideration or instruction from the state governor.
Dame Mbah described the allegation against Governor Mbah as an attempt to manufacture a narrative and whip up political sentiments, insisting that no documentary evidence had been presented to support the claim.
She urged the public to rely on verifiable facts rather than what she described as fabricated narratives surrounding the matter.
