Edo 2020: Oba of Benin Warns APC, PDP, Others

The Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, has warned politicians not to turn the state into a war zone before, during and after the Edo State Governorship election.

The hoodlums also destroyed billboards, cars, and other valuables during the flag-off of Obaseki’s re-election campaign.

The violence was said to have started as a result of clashes between supporters of the PDP and that of the All Progressives Congress (APC) – the two major parties in the state over the demolition of posters and campaign billboards.

The windshields of some innocent residents who were caught up in the clash were also damaged by the clashing political thugs.

In a statement issued by the Secretary, Benin Traditional Council (BTC), Frank Irabor, the first-class monarch said last Saturday’s visit to him by governors and leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at his palace in Benin ended well.

The secretary said: “The BTC observed with dismay, the unruly behaviour of some youths outside the gate of the palace on July 25, when His Excellency, Governor Godwin Obaseki and other PDP governors visited His Royal Majesty, the Oba of Benin.

“BTC wishes to state that HRM, the Oba of Benin, warmly welcomed the august visitors, led by Governor Obaseki. The meeting was cordial. During the meeting, HRM recalled the warm reception accorded him by Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State and Governor Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto State, when the Omo N’Oba paid a ‘thank you’ visit to those states.

“The visit of the august visitors to the Omo N’Oba ended very well. We were therefore surprised to hear later that there was an incident outside the palace, directly in front of Oredo Local Government Council Secretariat. HRM condemns this unruly behaviour that occurred in front of the palace.

“HRM is committed to peace and tranquility in Edo State and peaceful coming governorship election.”