The political tension in Edo State took a violent turn as shooting erupted outside the Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal in Benin City. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) have since engaged in a heated blame game over the incident that left residents in shock and chaos.
The PDP accused the APC of deploying masked thugs disguised in PDP-branded attire to disrupt tribunal proceedings. In a statement signed by Dr. Anthony Aziegbemi, Chairman of the Edo PDP Caretaker Committee, the PDP alleged that the APC orchestrated the violence to frustrate the tribunal process and tarnish the PDP’s reputation. The party described the incident as a desperate attempt by the APC to cling to power at all costs.
Reacting to the accusations, the APC, through its state chairman, Jarrett Tenebe, condemned the shooting and pointed fingers at armed supporters of the immediate past governor, Godwin Obaseki, who is affiliated with the PDP. The APC claimed that these individuals were responsible for creating the violent scene to disrupt the tribunal’s hearing. Tenebe urged residents of Benin City to condemn the actions of the PDP and called on security agencies to apprehend those responsible for the shootings.
The APC emphasized that violence has no place in Edo State and warned against actions that could destabilize the state. Tenebe also expressed disappointment over the lack of police presence as gunmen reportedly continued shooting sporadically along the road leading to the tribunal.
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The PDP, however, maintained its position, accusing the APC of using thugs to intimidate the opposition and mislead the public. The party reiterated its call for law enforcement agencies to arrest the gunmen and ensure that justice is served.
As the two major political parties trade accusations, residents of Edo State have expressed concerns over the escalating tension and the implications for the tribunal process. Many have taken to social media to demand accountability and question the absence of law enforcement during the violence.
The shootings outside the tribunal have not only disrupted proceedings but also highlighted the volatile nature of the political climate in Edo State. With both parties standing firm on their claims, the public eagerly awaits decisive action from security agencies to restore order and ensure that justice is not derailed by violence.
The tribunal’s proceedings continue to draw attention, with the incident serving as a stark reminder of the need for peace and decorum in the democratic process. As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on maintaining law and order while ensuring that the legal process is upheld without intimidation or disruption.
