In a significant move to ensure a peaceful electoral process, the Nigeria Police Force announced the arrest of two political thugs during an overnight operation across Edo State. Force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi confirmed the arrests in a statement released Saturday morning.
The suspects, identified as Edwin Obanor, 43, and Audu Tajudeen, 41, members of the Peoples Democratic Party from Igara Akoko, were apprehended following a tip-off about plans to incite violence during today’s governorship election. Police operatives acted swiftly, capturing Obanor at Oredo Ward 4 around 9 PM, while Tajudeen was arrested in Igara Akoko.
During the arrests, authorities recovered three locally fabricated pistols from Obanor and a homemade gun from Tajudeen. Adejobi emphasized that these arrests underscore the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to maintaining law and order, stating, “The police will not tolerate any form of violence or disorder during the election.” Both suspects are currently in custody and will face legal consequences for their actions.
To facilitate a smooth electoral process, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) has ordered a restriction on all vehicular movement from 6 AM to 6 PM today, with exceptions for essential services such as accredited media, electoral officials, ambulances, and emergency responders. Additionally, security aides and escorts accompanying VIPs to polling stations are banned, alongside unauthorized security personnel and vehicles.
Soldiers and other security personnel have been deployed to key locations.
The police have also requested that citizens avoid making prank calls to control rooms, noting that text messages are more effective for operational purposes.
For inquiries, the designated election lines include:
DIG Frank Mba: 07025000383
AIG Benneth Igwe: 09085000029
General control room: 08077773721 and 08037646272.
Political parties and their supporters are encouraged to act responsibly, as any violations or attempts to disrupt the electoral process will be met with the full force of the law. The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to fostering a safe and democratic environment, ensuring that the elections in Edo are conducted fairly and peacefully.