Reliable sources have raised serious concerns about potential electoral violence in Edo State’s Ovia South West Local Government Area ahead of the September 21, 2024, governorship election.
According to information being circulated, the House of Representatives member representing Ovia Federal Constituency is allegedly planning to provide fake Nigerian Army uniforms to his loyalists.
Residents say the intent is to use the impersonators to incite violence and disrupt the electoral process in the riverine areas of Ovia South West ahead of the guber poll.
Sources claim that the individuals, dressed in counterfeit military uniforms, are intended to create chaos and intimidate voters.
A source who chose to be anonymous said: ”The plan involves the impersonators causing mayhem to influence the outcome of the election.
”We are alarmed by these developments, as it show a disturbing level of desperation and disregard for electoral integrity by the APC.
”The use of fake military uniforms to perpetuate violence undermines the democratic process and threatens the safety and security of the electorate.
”The authorities should please investigate these allegations thoroughly and take appropriate measures to prevent any attempts to disrupt the upcoming governorship election.
”Ensuring a peaceful and fair electoral environment is crucial for maintaining public trust and upholding the democratic values of our state.
”Anything less is a recipe for violence and this won’t augur well for the wellbeing and future of our dear state.”
In a related development, Kelly Inedegbor, the local government chairman of Esan North East Local Government Area in Edo has responded to a controversial video circulating on social media, accusing him of having ties with a thug apprehended with arms in the state.
The chairman has, in turn, accused an APC federal lawmaker, and his party of orchestrating the video to tarnish his reputation.
According to a statement from Okonofua Harry Osemobor, the Chief Press Secretary to the Chairman, the video is part of a calculated attempt to damage Hon. Inedegbor’s image.
