The Edo State Government has blamed the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the rising insecurity in the state, alleging that the party armed over 5,000 youths and suspected thugs during the last governorship election.
The government further claimed that intelligence reports indicate PDP is still in possession of these arms and is allegedly stockpiling more in preparation for possible unrest if its candidate, Asue Ighodalo, does not receive a favorable judgment from the election petition tribunal.
In a statement issued by Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, the government expressed deep concern over the escalating violence, which it attributed to individuals linked to the PDP.
The statement alleged that these armed individuals were recruited into the Edo State Security Network under the previous administration and are still in possession of thousands of illegal weapons, now being used to perpetrate crimes such as robbery, kidnapping, and violent attacks.
It further accused former Governor Godwin Obaseki of making incendiary remarks before the election, including a public statement that “Nigeria would burn,” suggesting this was not mere rhetoric but a calculated move to empower thugs.
The government called on security agencies to intensify investigations, track down the armed individuals and their sponsors, and ensure they face justice.
It reaffirmed Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to prioritizing the safety of Edo residents and preventing politically motivated violence from taking root in the state.
In reaction, Edo PDP Chairman, Hon. Tony Azeigbemi, dismissed the state government’s allegations, describing them as an attempt to cover up its failure in handling security.
Azeigbemi criticized Governor Okpebholo for blaming the opposition rather than addressing the crisis, arguing that under his leadership, Edo has descended into lawlessness.
He stated that in just three weeks, at least 35 innocent citizens had been killed by armed groups and herdsmen, with many others injured and properties worth millions destroyed.
He further lamented that the state, once considered one of Nigeria’s safest under Obaseki’s administration, has now become a hotspot for kidnappings and violent crimes, urging the governor to focus on governance rather than shifting blame.
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