Edo election: APC threatens to boycott peace accord

Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki (2nd right), Dr Asue Ighodalo (2nd left) Mrs Ifeyinwa Ighodalo (left) and Ighodalo’s running mate, Osarodion Ogie Esq, (right) saluting the mammoth crowd during the PDP Campaign Flag-off at Ubiaja Township Stadium, Esan South East Local Government Area, on Thursday.

The Edo State chapter of All Progressives Congress (APC) on Thursday said it may not sign the Peace Accord today because the police have yet to arrest and prosecute suspected thugs identified during the political violence that led to the murder of Inspector Onuh Akor at the Benin airport.

Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki had on Wednesday said the PDP may not sign the Peace Accord over alleged police interference in the interest of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Obaseki alleged that the Police, responsible for enforcing the accord have, through their actions, allegedly shown that they are acting in the interest of the APC.

He said this when he received the Chairman of the National Peace Committee (NPC) and former Military Head of State, Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar, who was on a courtesy visit to the Government House in Benin City, the Edo State capital, ahead of the signing of the Peace Accord today September 12, 2024.

However, briefing newsmen before the commencement of the Peace Accord, Edo APC acting state Chairman, Jarrett Tenebe said the reasons they may not sign the Peace Accord is not unconnected with violence sometimes ago at the Benin airport.

“Two months ago, the then Edo State Commissioner of Police, CP Funsho Adegboye, told Nigerians that the command had the names of those who murdered Inspector Onuh Akor at the Benin airport.

“Is saddening to note that for more than two months since this ugly incident took place, the police are still unable to arrest and prosecute those that have been identified to be involved in the callout and unprovoked attack.

“Just last Sunday, the Esan West Local Government Council Chairman led a gang of PDP thugs to attack APC supporters who were preparing for campaigns in Ekpoma. They also destroyed businesses that belonged to APC supporters.

“In the wake of this very worrisome and dangerous trend, Governor Obaseki kept mute and refused to condemn the attacks as the Chief Security Officer of the state.”