ABUJA—The Unity Ambassadors Initiatives, a support group for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State, has called on Governor Godwin Obaseki to identify and bring to justice those responsible for last week’s fatal attack on the convoy of APC governorship candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo.
During a press briefing at the APC national secretariat in Abuja, the group’s Convener, Philip Eghomare, emphasized the importance of safe and fair elections. “Elections are a fundamental part of our democratic process, and every citizen has the right to participate safely and freely without fear of harm,” Eghomare stated. He condemned the use of violence and intimidation, urging all political actors to demonstrate restraint, civility, and respect for the democratic process.
Eghomare stressed that conflicts should be resolved through peaceful dialogue and that political stakeholders should focus on presenting their policy platforms and engaging with voters. “Ultimately, it is the will of the people, expressed through free and fair elections, that should determine the outcome – not the use of force or fear,” he said.
The group called on the Edo State government to uphold the rule of law and ensure the safety of all residents during the election period. Eghomare specifically urged law enforcement to swiftly investigate and prosecute those responsible for the death of Police Inspector Akur Onuh, who was killed in the attack. “We implore all citizens to participate peacefully and with civility as we choose our next governor,” he added.
Eghomare issued a stern warning to opposition parties, stating that Edo State belongs to all its residents and that any further attacks on their candidate would not be tolerated. “We the Esan-Central are strongly behind our illustrious son, Senator Okpebholo, our incoming governor by God’s grace,” he declared.
The group also appealed to the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to investigate the incident thoroughly, prosecute the perpetrators, and ensure justice is served to deter future political violence.
