Edo Governorship Election: Police Prevent Bloodbath, Recover Firearms From Thugs

By Frank Oshanugor

Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force have forestalled what would have probably stoked unimaginable flow of blood during today’s Governorship Election in Edo State by arresting two suspected political thugs who were armed with firearms.

The suspected political thugs arrested were 43-year-old Edwin Obanor and Audu Tajudeen, a 41-year-old member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) from Ugbogbo quarters, Igara Akoko, Edo. He was wearing a customised polo with an inscription depicting that he is a supporter of the PDP Governorship candidate in the election, Asue Ighodalo.

According to Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the operatives acting on a tip-off that some individuals had been armed to cause mayhem and destability during the election on Saturday, the police operatives swooped into action and apprehended Obanor, a leader of an armed group, at Oredo Ward 4 at about 9pm and Audu Tajudeen at Igara Akoko, Edo, on the eve of the election.

Upon searching the bags in their possession, three cut-to-size locally fabricated pistols were discovered on Obanor, while one locally made gun was recovered from Tajudeen.

These arrests, Adejobi said are a testament to the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to maintaining law and order and ensuring a peaceful electoral process. “The police and other supporting security agencies will not tolerate any form of violence or disorderliness during the election in Edo State.”

Meanwhile, the suspects are currently in custody and will face prosecution even as the Police have reassured the public of its dedication to protecting lives and property.

Citizens have been urged to report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or via any of the published help lines.