The Edo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has threatened to boycott the upcoming inspection of electoral materials related to the recent governorship election.
This decision stems from ongoing violence and reported shootings at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) head office in Benin, which the party believes jeopardizes the safety of the inspection process.
On Thursday, October 10, 2024, there were reports of sporadic gunfire from suspected political thugs near the INEC office, creating a tense atmosphere.
Additionally, clashes between APC and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) supporters occurred around Ikpoba River, approximately 700 meters from the INEC office, resulting in several individuals sustaining bullet wounds.
During a briefing in Benin, APC State Chairman Jarret Tenebe expressed concerns over the security situation, indicating that the party might withdraw from the inspection exercise.
He stated that if they choose to participate, the APC would arrange for alternative security measures for its members and legal team.
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Tenebe demanded the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the violence against APC members at the INEC office, specifically alleging that PDP members were involved in the shootings, which left one APC supporter critically injured.
In response, Hon. Matthew Iduoriyekemwen, a PDP chieftain and Director General of the party’s 2024 Governorship Election Campaign Council, dismissed the APC’s allegations as unfounded and misleading.
He accused the APC of resorting to violence, stating, “PDP members have never been armed and never resorted to using guns.” He claimed that the shooting incident was provoked by APC thugs and emphasized that the PDP remains committed to pursuing their electoral mandate.
This escalating conflict between the two major political parties in Edo State highlights the increasingly volatile political climate as they prepare for the upcoming electoral processes.
