The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party has accused the state’s police of being biased towards the All Progressives Congress.
They claim the police are ignoring complaints from the PDP while focusing on issues raised by the APC.
PDP Chairman in Edo State, Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, made the accusation at a press conference in Benin. He said that a few weeks ago, Reverend Olu Martins, the Deputy Director General of the PDP Election Campaign Council, was arrested based on a petition against him. Martins was later granted bail and the case was postponed.
Aziegbemi also mentioned that he had submitted a petition against the APC chairman in Edo State. The petition was about a threat made by the APC chairman to lead youths to attack the state governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki. Aziegbemi said, “We submitted video evidence and a petition to the Commissioner of Police, but no action has been taken.”
He accused the police of acting quickly against the PDP but ignoring complaints about the APC. “On July 18, APC thugs caused chaos along Benin Airport Road, leading to property damage and the death of a police officer,” Aziegbemi added. He said that despite having video evidence and a petition about this incident, the police have not arrested anyone from the APC involved.
Aziegbemi also claimed that police have been harassing PDP members while ignoring violence by APC supporters. He stated, “The police seem to act in favor of the APC and ignore justice for the PDP. This is a dangerous trend that undermines democracy and the rule of law.”
He called on the Inspector General of Police to ensure fair treatment and bring actual criminals to justice. “We urge the IGP to protect democracy and uphold the rule of law,” Aziegbemi said.
When contacted, Edo State Commissioner of Police Funsho Adegboye responded, “The cases are now in Abuja. Any inquiries should be directed to the Force CID.”
The PDP’s accusations come as Edo State prepares for its governorship election on September 21, raising concerns about the integrity of the electoral process.
