As accusations and counter-accusations over the political violence that resulted in the death of a police inspector in the state continue, the Asue-Ogie
Campaign Organisation has said that it would resist any attempt by other parties to use external force to intimidate members of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.
DAILY POST reports that the Director-General of the campaign organisation, Matthew Iduoriyekemwen, made the remarks at a press briefing on Sunday in Benin City.
At the press briefing titled “A Call for Justice and Fair Play in Edo State’s 2024 Political Landscape,” Iduoriyekemwen said PDP would resist any attempt by other parties or campaign organisations to use external force to intimidate, harass, or molest them during their peaceful campaign or undermine their democratic process.
“We call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to remember that he is now the father of all Nigerians, not just the APC, and urge him to act as a father to the nation and ensure a fair and just democratic process,” he said.
Iduoriyekemwen alleged that since the incident, the campaign council has witnessed an alarming increase in harassment and violence perpetrated by political thugs associated with APC.
He alleged that political thugs are targeting those supporting PDP and its candidate, Asue Ighodalo.
“Regarding the events of Thursday, 18th July 2024, the Edo State APC, under the guise of federal might, has used the Nigeria Police Force to harass members of our party.
“They are attempting to twist the narrative and pin the killing of the police officer on members of the Peoples Democratic Party.
“Contrary to their claims, the PDP has conducted and will continue to conduct peaceful and violence-free campaigns. We have no intention of engaging in violence against any political party, its members, or candidates.
“Videos circulating on social media platforms, including YouTube, clearly show the perpetrators of the violence on Airport Road, Benin City.
“These individuals, identified as known thugs affiliated with the Edo State APC, were seen brandishing sophisticated weapons,” he said.
He urged the Federal Government and the Inspector General of Police to thoroughly investigate the matter, as petitions have already been submitted by the state government and PDP.
He also alleged that a female director of the PDP campaign organisation was beaten and her vehicle destroyed. Despite her report to the police, no action has been taken to bring the perpetrators to justice, he claimed.
Iduoriyekemwen urged the Inspector General of Police to act impartially and not favour any political party.
He also urged all members, followers, and supporters of the party’s governorship candidate to remain steadfast in their support.
He further advised the party faithful not to be intimidated or allow themselves to be disenfranchised by those who claim to have “federal might” as Nigeria is a democratic state and not a one-party state.
Benin Airport attack: Asue Campaign Organisation vows to resist intimidation