The upcoming governorship election in Edo State is gradually building up tension in the state.
From all indications, it is clear that the September 21 election may not be peaceful.
Yes, there are many reasons for this, and many more are coming up.
Barely hours ago, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) chairman in the state vowed to burn the state to the dust if the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate is not declared winner.
Now, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has announced it will not sign the Peace Accord just hours before its scheduled signing.
The decision comes amidst heightened tensions ahead of the September 21 governorship election.
The APC’s stance contrasts sharply with recent statements from Governor Godwin Obaseki.
No Faith In Police
Obaseki while meeting with General Abdulsalami Abubakar, Chairman of the Presidential Peace Committee, suggested that his Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) might also reconsider signing the accord.
Obaseki cited a loss of faith in the police and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as reasons for the PDP’s potential withdrawal.
However, Emperor Jarret Tenebe, speaking at a press conference, outlined the APC’s reasons for shunning the peace accord.
He knocked the police for failing to apprehend those responsible for the murder of Inspector Onuh Akor, the orderly to APC candidate Sen. Monday Okpebholo.
Tenebe further accused Governor Obaseki and the PDP of using inflammatory rhetoric and failing to address attacks on APC members.
Threat By NLC
He cited incidents of violence against the APC campaign team in various local government areas and condemned Obaseki’s silence on the matter.
Furthermore, Tenebe pointed to recent threats made by Odion Olaye, the Chairman of the Nigerian Labour Congress in Edo State.
Now, Tenebe wants the police to take concrete steps to address the violence and ensure that those implicated in the murder of Inspector Akor are publicly declared wanted.
