The Edo State Government has accused leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of sponsoring a surge in violent crimes, including kidnappings, to destabilise the state and undermine Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration.
In a press release issued on Tuesday, the government called for an immediate investigation into the allegations, describing the situation as a deliberate attempt to create chaos.
According to the statement signed by Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, “Disturbingly, intelligence reports indicate that these crimes are not just the handiwork of random criminal elements but are being sponsored by leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Their aim? To create chaos, undermine the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo, and destabilise governance in the State.”
The government also linked the current security crisis to the actions of the former PDP-led administration under ex-Governor Godwin Obaseki.
The statement revealed, “During the 2024 Edo governorship election, the former PDP-led government recklessly armed non-state actors, flooding the State with dangerous weapons. Many of these arms were never retrieved, contributing to the proliferation of small arms and fueling the present security crisis.”
Governor Okpebholo’s administration has urged the Nigeria Police and other security agencies to investigate the allegations thoroughly.
The statement emphasised, “Given the weight of these allegations and the security implications, it is imperative that the Nigeria Police and other security agencies launch a thorough investigation into the involvement of PDP leaders in these crimes. No individual or political group should be allowed to hold the state hostage for political gain.”
The government also called on Edo residents to remain vigilant and reject false narratives being spread by political actors.
It stated, “The PDP’s desperation to reclaim power through the backdoor should not come at the expense of public safety. Edo people must reject the false narratives being peddled by these political saboteurs and support the government’s genuine efforts to restore peace and order.”
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