The Edo State Police Command has intensified security around the venue of the Edo State governorship election petition tribunal in Benin City, following increased unrest during the tribunal’s first week of hearings.
Located at the High Court Complex on Sapele Road, the tribunal has witnessed clashes between supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Heightened Security Measures
In an interview on Sunday, the Edo State Police Command confirmed it had deployed additional officers to prevent any breach of peace at the tribunal.
This follows reports of gunfire and violent disruptions, including a viral video showing a man firing shots in the air.
SP Moses Yamu, spokesperson for the police command, stated, “Our duty is to maintain peace, and we have increased manpower to ensure this. Political parties must adhere to the rules.”
The Commissioner of Police has also launched an investigation into the viral shooting incident and is committed to identifying and prosecuting those involved.
Background of the Tribunal Case
The tribunal stems from the September governorship election, in which Senator Monday Okpebholo of the APC was declared the winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) with 291,667 votes.
His closest rival, Asue Ighodalo of the PDP, received 247,655 votes, while Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party secured 22,763 votes.
The PDP, however, has alleged electoral fraud and petitioned the tribunal to overturn the results, asking for Ighodalo to be declared the rightful winner.
Rising Violence and Accusations
Tensions escalated last week with multiple instances of violence:
A gunman was seen in a viral video shooting and chanting near the High Court.
Thugs reportedly attempted to disrupt the tribunal proceedings on consecutive days.
Clashes occurred between party supporters and private security personnel.
While the APC has accused the PDP of instigating the unrest, the PDP has countered, alleging the APC is attempting to distract the tribunal and intimidate its candidate and supporters.
Calls for Calm
Both parties have been urged to prioritize peace. The Labour Party’s Public Relations Officer, Sam Uruopa, warned that the ongoing violence threatens democracy, saying, “Both parties must stop treating this as a war and allow the tribunal process to proceed smoothly.”
Moving Forward
With security now reinforced, all eyes remain on the Justice Wilfred Kpochi-led tribunal as it works to resolve the contentious case.
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