A storm is brewing in Edo State as the government has accused the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of fueling insecurity by arming thugs before the 2024 governorship election and failing to disarm them, leading to a surge in violent crimes across the state.
In a statement released on behalf of Governor Monday Okpebholo, his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, warned that these armed groups, many of whom were integrated into the Edo State Security Network under the previous administration, still possess over 5,000 illegal firearms. According to him, these weapons are now being used to terrorize innocent citizens through armed robbery, kidnappings, and violent attacks.
Itua further claimed that intelligence reports indicate PDP leaders are not only protecting these criminal elements but actively stockpiling additional weapons in anticipation of post-election violence, should their candidate, Asue Ighodalo, lose his case at the election tribunal.
“The former administration deliberately armed these thugs for political purposes, and now they have become a menace to society. Instead of assisting security agencies in recovering these weapons, PDP leaders are providing cover for them. This is a ticking time bomb, and we will not allow Edo to descend into anarchy,” Itua stated.
The government has called on security agencies to act swiftly, recover all illegal arms, and bring those responsible to justice. Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring peace and ensuring that no individual or political group holds the state hostage.
As security forces ramp up operations, residents remain on edge, hoping that the government’s strong warning will translate into concrete action before the situation spirals out of control
