The Nigeria Police Force has made a significant breakthrough in its efforts to prevent electoral violence in Edo State by arresting two suspected political thugs linked to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The individuals, identified as 43-year-old Edwin Obanor and 41-year-old Audu Tajudeen from Ugbogbo Quarters, Igara Akoko, Edo, were apprehended for allegedly plotting to disrupt the Edo State elections.
The arrests were confirmed in a statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, on Saturday. According to the statement, the police, acting on a tip-off, swiftly moved to neutralize the threat posed by the suspects, who were reportedly armed with dangerous weapons intended to cause chaos and instability during the elections.
Edwin Obanor, a known leader of an armed group, was apprehended at Oredo Ward 4 around 9 p.m. on the eve of the election. Upon searching his belongings, police discovered three cut-to-size locally fabricated pistols, solidifying suspicions of his involvement in a plot to incite violence during the election. His associate, Audu Tajudeen, was arrested in Igara Akoko, Edo, and was found in possession of a locally made gun.
“These arrests are a testament to the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to ensuring a peaceful and secure electoral process,” said ACP Adejobi. He emphasized that the police and other security agencies would not tolerate any form of violence or attempts to disrupt the electoral proceedings.
