Governor Godwin Obaseki has issued a stern warning regarding the ongoing harassment, intimidation, and arrest of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftains and members by the police. With the gubernatorial election set for September 21, Obaseki cautioned that these actions could precipitate a crisis in Edo State.
Addressing protesters at the Government House in Benin City, who were demonstrating against the illegal detention of PDP members, Obaseki called on the Inspector General of Police to intervene and prevent further escalation. He emphasized that the situation, if not promptly addressed, could lead to a nationwide crisis.
Obaseki urged the youth and party supporters to remain calm and peaceful, assuring them that he would discuss the issue with the Inspector General of Police during a scheduled meeting tomorrow.
The governor also accused the police of colluding with the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) to undermine the PDP. He highlighted the arrest of a local government chairman as part of a broader strategy to intimidate PDP members, including himself.
Obaseki expressed concern over the police’s actions, stating, “If the Commissioner of Police can undermine my authority as the Chief Security Officer of the State, then I don’t really know what I should do next. I understand that the Inspector General of Police will be in the State tomorrow, and I will make my feelings known to him.”
He further criticized the transfer of arrested individuals to Abuja, calling it unconstitutional and a threat to democracy. “The police force is supposed to protect every Nigerian, not some,” Obaseki said.
The governor concluded by urging everyone to stay peaceful and await the outcome of his meeting with the Inspector General of Police, warning that the current situation could create a dangerous precedent for Edo and Nigeria as a whole.
