PDP planning to import thugs for Edo polls - Oshiomhole

Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo state has raised an alarm concerning the forthcoming governorship polls in the state

Oshiomhole said some opposition parties are planning to import thugs into the state for the election

He called on the police to investigate the allegation

Governor Adams Oshiomhole has alleged that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is planning to import thugs from other states into Edo state for the September 10 governorship election in the state.

Oshiomhole made the allegation when he received the Assistant Inspector-General (AIG) in charge of Zone 5, Benin City, Mr Adeyinka Kolawole

Sodipo at the Government House, Benin.

• Share on Facebook
• Share on Twitter

Edo PDP candidate, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu

According to the New Telegraph, Oshiomhole urged the police to provide a level-playing field for all parties to ensure a credible electoral exercise.

His words: “All we need is a level-playing field.We have information about people from neighbouring states under your zone, who are planning to relocate to Edo for the purpose of the election.

“Some were deployed in the state to register during the continuous voters registration exercise, so that they can come and cause trouble on election day.

“We have a huge challenge in having to ensure that thugs are not imported from the neighbouring states to cause mayhem and discredit the election. I believe that an enabling playing field can be achieved regardless of an individual or group that plots to undermine the process.”

The governor also chided the PDP for calling on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure that the election in the state is not inconclusive.

According to him,the statement credited to the opposition party  is indicative of their plan to disrupt the exercise and make it inconclusive.

He went on to praise the police and other security agencies in the state for the peace and tranquility recorded in the state, saying “Edo people feel that the state is more secure than it was some years ago.”

\READ ALSO:Abia : Ouster of Ikpeazu, a “miscarriage of justice” – Appeal court

AIG Sodipo assured the governor of the police impartiality. He said: “We will provide a conducive environment and a level playing ground for all parties during the election.” 

Meanwhile, wife of the president, Hajiya Aisha Buhari has declared her support for the candidate of APC,Mr Godwin Obaseki in the forthcoming election.