Obaseki raises alarm over Oshiomhole’s security privileges. Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has raised alarm over the security detail assigned to former governor Adams Oshiomhole, claiming that the ex-governor has access to more protection than he does as the sitting governor. In a video shared by Channels TV, Obaseki detailed his concerns, highlighting what he described as an unusual level of security afforded to Oshiomhole, who is no longer in office.
Obaseki stated that two armored personnel carriers (APCs) are permanently stationed at Oshiomhole’s residence, an arrangement he argued is not customary for former governors. He also accused Oshiomhole of using police helicopters to campaign for the opposition party in the state, a move he says undermines his authority and disrupts the political landscape in Edo.
“If you know what has happened in the last few weeks, you will worry for Nigeria,” Obaseki said in the video. “A former governor of a state has more security cover than a current sitting governor. He has two APCs in front of his premises. A former governor is using police helicopters to campaign for the opposition in Nigeria. As I speak today, you have armed policemen across the state trying to arrest political opponents.”
The governor’s comments reflect growing tensions within the state, as the 2024 gubernatorial elections draw nearer. Obaseki also alleged that armed police officers are being deployed statewide to arrest members of his party, further stoking fears of political intimidation and harassment.
The accusations come at a time of heightened political rivalry between the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo. While Oshiomhole, now a key figure in the APC, has not publicly responded to these claims, the allegations have sparked a debate over the role of security forces in political campaigns and the potential misuse of state resources.
Obaseki’s concerns are likely to fuel further scrutiny of the actions of security agencies in the state, with observers calling for impartiality and fairness in the lead-up to the elections. The governor has urged the federal government to intervene and ensure that the rule of law is upheld, as the state navigates this politically charged period.
