A national crisis could erupt if APC fails to allow a free and fair poll in Edo, according to Obaseki. Read why this is critical.
The Edo State government has criticized the efforts of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to distort remarks made by Governor Godwin Obaseki. The governor had cautioned that a failure to ensure unbiased elections in the state could trigger instability across Nigeria.
According to the Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare’s statement, he accused the opposition party of attempting to utilize violence as a tool to sway the result of the upcoming September 21 state gubernatorial election.
During a stakeholders’ meeting in the state capital of Benin City on Sunday, Nehikhare reported that the governor cautioned against any obstacles to a fair and democratic election in Edo State come September 21, 2024. The governor warned that failure to do so would result in significant unrest throughout Nigeria.
The commissioner made a statement that addressed the issue, stating: “The Edo State Government has noticed the futile efforts of the opposition party, All Progressives Congress (APC), to twist Governor Godwin Obaseki’s comments at a stakeholders meeting on Sunday, July 21st, 2024 in Benin City – which is our state capital.”
To clarify, we would like to reiterate the governor’s remarks made during that event regarding a potential issue; specifically, “Should there be any hindrance to conducting a transparent and impartial election in Edo State on September 21st of 2024, it could result in significant unrest throughout Nigeria.”
Recollect that during the prelude to the APC National Campaign Council’s inauguration rally in Benin City scheduled for Saturday, July 20, 2024, a considerable crowd was gathered by the party around Benin Airport precincts on Thursday, July 18. This event led to devastating consequences such as unfortunate demised of Inspector Akor Onuh attached with Abuja MOPOL 45 and widespread property damage while several citizens performing their lawful activities sustained injuries.
“The mob proceeded to other establishments in the city and launched an attack on the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) secretariat. The lawyers at their office were subjected to violence and terror, resulting in severe injuries sustained by Mr. Israel Idahosa as well as damage to his property.”
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Within the Benin metropolis, private citizens who displayed insignia of Dr Asue Ighodalo and the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) were subjected to intimidation and harassment.
Their intentions for the September 21 governorship election in the state have been revealed by APC; they plan to cause chaos and manipulate the forthcoming election, just as it’s said that morning shows day.
It is our advice to the APC that they take into account the prevailing mood of the nation, which is characterized by extreme difficulty, unrealistic expenses and widespread hunger. This political party must realize that even slightly reckless conduct from its members could trigger a harmful chain reaction leading to nationwide discord.
Considering the looming danger of a nationwide protest that could potentially spiral into a massive disruption of law and order, this cautionary message carries even greater significance.
The commissioner advised citizens in the state to conduct their affairs legally and emphasized that they should not be afraid. He also called on Nigerian law enforcement to fulfill its responsibility by arresting troublemakers, many of whom have been identified and recorded with weapons at the scene of recent strife.
The government of Edo State is prepared to provide real-time surveillance videos through their robust security system to aid the Police in their investigation.
