The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is demanding a comprehensive investigation into the involvement of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its candidate, Monday Okpebholo, in a violent incident that resulted in the death of a police officer in Benin City, Edo State, on July 18, 2024. The PDP argues that simply offering a scholarship to the officer’s children does not absolve the APC leaders of their responsibility for the violence.
The PDP has accused the APC of using the scholarship offer as a way to divert attention from their alleged involvement in the violence. They claim this gesture is an attempt to cover up the role of APC leaders and their thugs, who they believe orchestrated the violent clash that led to the officer’s death. The PDP is calling for those responsible for the violence to be held accountable and not allowed to escape justice under the guise of charity.
In a statement, the PDP’s national publicity secretary, Hon. Debo Ologungaba, condemned the APC leaders for their apparent disregard for human life. He argued that the APC’s actions demonstrate a troubling lack of respect for the law and a willingness to evade responsibility for their role in the incident.
Ologungaba emphasized that there is substantial evidence, including photographs and video recordings, showing that thugs allegedly mobilized by the APC were involved in the violence. According to the PDP, these thugs were escorting Okpebholo and other APC leaders from Benin Airport into the city when the violence erupted. The party insists that the Inspector General of Police must thoroughly investigate these claims to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
The PDP has reiterated its call for a full investigation, stressing that the violence cannot be overlooked or minimized. The party is also urging the police to act decisively and ensure that no one involved in the officer’s death is allowed to avoid accountability.
In addition to their demand for justice, the PDP has extended its condolences to the family of the slain police officer. They have called on the police to ensure that the perpetrators of this tragic incident face legal consequences for their actions. The party believes that a thorough investigation is crucial not only for justice for the officer and his family but also for maintaining public trust in the electoral process and political integrity.
The PDP’s stance reflects its broader concerns about political violence and the need for accountability among political leaders. The party is committed to ensuring that those responsible for such acts are held accountable and that the rule of law is upheld. The call for a full investigation underscores the importance of addressing violence in the political arena and ensuring that such incidents do not go unpunished.
The PDP is pressing for a full and transparent investigation into the APC’s alleged involvement in the violence that led to the death of a police officer. They are demanding accountability for those responsible and urging the police to ensure justice is served. The party’s stance highlights the need for a rigorous response to political violence and a commitment to upholding the law.
