Edo Poll: Obaseki Vows To Arrest, Prosecute Attackers Of PDP Supporters In Edo

Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki says his administration is doing everything within the ambits of the law to arrest and prosecute those that attacked supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the palace of the Oba of Benin.

Obaseki stated this in a statement posted on his facebook page on Friday.

Recall that supporters of the PDP and the All Progressives Congress (APC) had on Saturday, July 25th, clashed at the Oba’s palace.

The clash preceded the visit of the leaders of the PDP, who were at the palace to pay homage to the Monarch, ahead of the commencement of the campaign flag-off of the party.

It was gathered that the former chairman of the APC, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, Captain Hosa Okunbo and Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, were also at the palace for a function after the visit of the PDP leadership.

Sounds of gunshot rent the air, with several supporters of both sides sustaining varying degrees of injuries, just as motorists and pedestrians scampered for safety.

There had been accusations and counter-accusations by both parties since the incident.

But, Obaseki, in the statement on Friday, said he was not weak as governor, but believed in respecting human rights.

He also noted that he would use state powers with discretion and moderation, adding that his administration was committed to ensuring violence-free electioneering in the state.

The governor further said the attack was an attempt to provoke him.

He said, “I believe my powers as a governor should be used responsibly, particularly in the face of provocation, and especially what the other party did in the palace by attacking our supporters in an attempt to provoke me.

He also expressed optimism that, “As a PDP state, I’m confident that our party will win the forthcoming election. If we have an election today in the state, PDP will win by 75 per cent. PDP has always won every national election in Edo State.”

The Edo State governorship election is slated for September 19th.

Obaseki and Ize Iyamu of the APC are the major contenders for the seat of governor.