The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State has vehemently refuted accusations from the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led administration, alleging PDP involvement in the state’s escalating insecurity crisis. The PDP characterizes these accusations as a calculated attempt to deflect blame and target the opposition.
PDP Chairman Anthony Aziegbemi, in a statement issued Wednesday in Benin City, condemned the allegations, asserting they were fabricated to justify politically motivated attacks against PDP members. He stated, “It is unfortunate, shameful, and disappointing that a government meant to protect citizens now admits it has no plan to address the state’s worsening insecurity.”
He further accused the state government of indirectly admitting its inability to resolve a crisis that has reportedly claimed at least 40 lives in recent weeks. Instead of seeking collaborative solutions, Aziegbemi claims the APC is engaging in a “blame game—merely a pretext to launch violent attacks on opposition members and destroy their properties through politically motivated actions.”
Aziegbemi reiterated the PDP’s role as a watchdog, stating, “PDP’s role is to raise alarms and ensure the government fulfills its duty of safeguarding the lives and property of the people of Edo State.” He called upon various security agencies, civil society organizations, and the citizens of Edo State to take note of what he perceives as threats emanating from the APC-led government.
These rebuttals follow accusations made on Tuesday, March 11, by the Edo government, linking PDP leaders to the sponsorship of insecurity aimed at undermining the administration and destabilizing the state.
Fred Itua, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, alleged that intelligence reports connected PDP leaders to recent kidnappings and violent crimes, dismissing the opposition’s concerns as “crocodile tears.” Itua called upon security agencies to investigate the alleged involvement of PDP leaders in the escalating criminal activities.
