Governor Godwin Obaseki has expressed concern over the potential for crisis in the upcoming September 21 governorship election in Edo State. He alleged that elements within the All Progressives Congress (APC) are colluding with the Nigeria Police Force to intimidate, attack, kidnap, and detain members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Obaseki claimed that over 10 PDP chieftains have been arrested in the past few weeks, including the serving Chairman of Esan West Local Government Area, Hon. Collins Aigbogun, who was whisked away to Abuja. He stated that he had reached out to the Edo State Commissioner of Police to ensure due process, but his directive was flouted.

The governor accused the APC of attempting to prevent a peaceful election and stoke chaos in the state. He cited incidents of police harassment and intimidation of PDP members, including a violent disturbance on Airport Road, Benin City, orchestrated by APC-sponsored thugs.

Obaseki called on the Presidency, international community, and security agencies to intervene and ensure a free, fair, and credible election. He warned that the current situation could lead to disaster and chaos if not checked.

In response, the Edo State Chapter of the APC advised Governor Obaseki to release the alleged killers of Inspector Akor Onu to the Nigeria Police for prosecution, accusing him of harboring criminals in the government house.