Battle For Edo: Alarm Raised Over Obaseki’s Alleged Manipulative Use Of Edo State Security Network Ahead Of Gubernatorial Election

Battle For Edo: Alarm Raised Over Obaseki’s Alleged Manipulative Use Of Edo State Security Network Ahead Of Gubernatorial Election

Edo State, July 29, 2024 – The APC New Media Directorate has issued a stark warning to the citizens of Edo State, urging heightened vigilance in light of recent allegations against Governor Godwin Obaseki. The Directorate’s press release claims that Obaseki is allegedly using the Edo State Security Network (ESN) to manipulate the forthcoming gubernatorial election slated for September 21st.

During a recent address to the National Assembly, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), expressed significant concerns regarding the security of the upcoming Edo elections. Yakubu disclosed that one of the political parties had raised alarming accusations that Governor Obaseki is weaponizing the state vigilante network to disrupt the election process.

The APC New Media Directorate’s statement elaborated on these allegations, asserting that Obaseki has been actively recruiting a substantial number of individuals into the ESN. The Directorate fears that this expanded security outfit could be strategically deployed on Election Day to ensure a victory for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), thereby compromising the integrity of the electoral process.

“The allegations against Governor Obaseki are deeply troubling and warrant immediate attention from all Edo citizens,” the press release stated. “We urge everyone to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities. It is crucial that we protect the sanctity of our democratic process and ensure a free, fair, and transparent election.”

The APC New Media Directorate also called on security agencies to maintain neutrality and uphold their constitutional duty to protect all citizens, ensuring the safety and fairness of the electoral process. “Any attempt to intimidate or manipulate voters will not be tolerated and will be met with the full force of the law,” the statement warned.

In light of these developments, the Directorate emphasized the importance of unity and collective action in safeguarding democracy in Edo State. “Let us all come together in this critical time to ensure that the will of the people prevails,” the press release concluded.

The allegations have sparked significant concern among the electorate, with many citizens expressing their apprehensions about the potential for electoral malpractice. As the gubernatorial election draws nearer, all eyes will be on Edo State to see how these allegations unfold and what measures will be taken to ensure a credible and transparent election process.