Edo State Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa, on Friday debunked the claim that he is a member of a secret cult group.

Reacting to a viral video by one Emmanuel Agbogun, who accused Idahosa and other prominent citizens of the state of belonging to cult groups, the deputy governor said the accusation was spurious, defamatory and malicious.

While noting that he would take the matter to court, Agbogun said the content in the video was a deliberate attempt to tarnish his reputation and undermine his unwavering dedication to public service.

In a statement he personally signed, the deputy governor said, “These allegations also seek to distract this administration’s ongoing efforts to combat cultism and restore peace and order in Edo State.

“The claim that I am affiliated with any secret cult group is entirely false and baseless. I vehemently deny any involvement, both past or present in cult-related activities.

“As a public servant and the current Deputy Governor of Edo State, I have always upheld the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability in serving the good people of Edo State and Nigeria at large.

“Let me again reiterate that I consider this publication not only slanderous but also a direct attack on my character.

I will not treat it lightly and will pursue all legal avenues to ensure that such defamation is addressed within the full extent of the law.”

He maintained that he had never belonged to a cult before now and he would not.

“For the avoidance of doubt, I am not, and have never been a member of any secret cult. I am a Christian and a steadfast believer in the teachings of Jesus Christ.

“I urge all well-meaning citizens of Edo State to remain vigilant and continue supporting our collective efforts to eradicate cultism and uphold the values of peace, justice, and development,” he said.