A coalition of civil society organizations has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and stop the alleged police excesses in Edo State, ahead of the September 21st governorship election.
“The situation in Edo State is dire, and it’s imperative that President Tinubu acts now to prevent a complete breakdown of law and order,” said Dr. Angela Obi, Chairperson of the Network of Civil Society Organizations. “The police have become an instrument of oppression, rather than protection, and it’s unacceptable.”
“We have documented numerous cases of police brutality, harassment, and intimidation of PDP supporters, while APC supporters are allowed to roam free and commit acts of violence with impunity,” said John Akinade, Executive Director of the Civil Society Forum. “This is a clear case of political persecution, and it’s unacceptable.”
“The police are supposed to be neutral, but in Edo State, they have become an extension of the APC,” said Comrade Austin Osakwe, President of the Edo State Civil Society Coalition. “We demand that the President takes immediate action to address this situation and ensure that the police are neutral in the upcoming election.”
“We urge the Inspector General of Police to take concrete steps to address these allegations and restore public trust in the police,” said Dr. Obi. “The police must be seen to be serving the people, not just the ruling party.”
“The silence of President Tinubu on this matter is deafening,” said Barrister Emeka Umeagbalasi, Chairman of the International Society for Civil Liberties & Rule of Law. “He must speak out against these excesses and take action to stop them.”
“The people of Edo State are living in fear, and it’s up to President Tinubu to restore their confidence in the system,” said Dr. Chidi Odinkalu, former Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission. “He must act now to prevent a humanitarian crisis in Edo State.”
“We are not aware of any police excesses in Edo State,” said APC spokesperson, Mr. Felix Morka. “The PDP is just trying to distract from their own failures.”
“We are concerned about the situation in Edo State and will take appropriate action to ensure free and fair elections,” said Presidential spokesperson, Mr. Bayo Onanuga. “We urge all parties to remain calm and peaceful.”
“The situation in Edo State is a test of President Tinubu’s commitment to democracy and human rights,” said Dr. Kole Shettima, Director of the MacArthur Foundation. “He must pass this test by taking action to stop the police excesses and ensure a level playing field for all parties.”
“We will continue to speak out against these excesses and demand action from President Tinubu,” said Comrade Osakwe. “The people of Edo State deserve better than this.”
