Abuja: A Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Chief Emmanuel Ogidi, has called for a comprehensive investigation into the recent political tension in Edo. Ogidi, in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), described the recent hostilities involving prominent political figures as a ‘bad omen’ for the nation’s democracy, especially ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Ogidi expressed concern over the unacceptable conditions faced by the 2023 Labour Party Presidential Candidate, Peter Obi, former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, and leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). He urged President Bola Tinubu to direct security agencies to investigate reported threats to the lives of ADC members and ensure that those responsible are prosecuted.
Ogidi emphasized the need for decisive action to prevent a recurrence and to protect Nigeria’s political landscape from preventable violence. He lamented the reduction of political contests to violent confrontations, citing incidents such as attacks by bandits and herdsmen, and the disruption of elections by political thugs.
The PDP chieftain called on President Tinubu to investigate these incidents thoroughly and ensure that the perpetrators are held accountable. He stressed the importance of political tolerance and the need to end the culture of ‘personal entitlement’ in Nigerian politics.
Ogidi also urged Nigerians not to be intimidated by any group and to remember that ‘Nigeria belongs to all of us.’ He expressed concern that the current political climate could deter citizens from participating in future elections, highlighting the importance of addressing these issues to preserve democratic participation.