Open Letter to IGP: Urgent Call for Enhanced Security as PDP and Obaseki Orchestrate Violence Against APC in Edo State

Open Letter to IGP: Urgent Call for Enhanced Security as PDP and Obaseki Orchestrate Violence Against APC in Edo State

Benin City, Edo State – In a strongly worded appeal, the Director of the APC New Media Directorate, Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah, has called on the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, to urgently address the escalating violence allegedly being orchestrated by the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and Governor Godwin Obaseki’s loyalists in Edo State.

The open letter, addressed directly to the IGP, highlights a disturbing trend of violence aimed at APC supporters across the state. The APC alleges that these attacks have been designed to disrupt the party’s campaign activities, with the most recent ambush occurring at Ugbekpe Ekperi Ward 6 in Etsako Central Local Government.

Omo-Ikirodah expressed deep concern over the security of APC members and citizens alike, stating that Edo has become a hotbed for politically motivated violence, particularly as the gubernatorial race draws closer. According to the report, various regions, including Esan, Edo North, and Edo South, have been affected, leaving APC supporters vulnerable as they attend rallies in support of Senator Monday Okpebholo, the party’s gubernatorial candidate.

The letter further underscores the role of Governor Godwin Obaseki, whom the APC accuses of fanning the flames of unrest with provocative statements. Obaseki’s controversial comment that “Nigeria would burn” was cited as an alarming indicator of his administration’s willingness to undermine democracy through violence and intimidation. The APC claims that the governor’s attitude has emboldened PDP members to engage in such unlawful acts.

Given the severity of the situation, the APC has called for an immediate deployment of enhanced security personnel, particularly in flashpoints where tension has been rising. The party emphasized that citizens deserve to exercise their democratic rights without fear of violence, intimidation, or coercion. Omo-Ikirodah assured the Inspector General of Police of the party’s confidence in his proven leadership, expressing hope that the IGP would take swift action to prevent further disruption to the election process.

The letter concludes by urging the IGP to extend police resources to areas most affected by the violence, ensuring that peace and order prevail during the upcoming elections. The APC reiterated its trust in the Nigeria Police Force to uphold justice and maintain peace, even in the face of the PDP’s alleged aggressive tactics.

As Edo State prepares for a critical election, political tensions continue to rise, with the APC accusing the PDP of attempting to sabotage the democratic process through violence and financial recklessness. The state’s residents, meanwhile, await an official response from the authorities, hopeful that peace will be restored in time for a fair and free election.

For further information, contact:
Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah
Director, APC New Media Directorate