The Edo State Government has strongly opposed the recent suspension of the Edo Security Corps (ESC) by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun. The suspension, announced by the IGP during an Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Stakeholder Meeting on September 11, 2024, has sparked controversy and legal debate.
Crusoe Osagie, the Special Adviser to Governor Godwin Obaseki on Media, issued a statement challenging the IGP’s authority to suspend the ESC. According to Osagie, the ESC is a legally established body created by the Edo State House of Assembly. He argued that the IGP’s action is unconstitutional and oversteps his jurisdiction.
“The Edo State Government insists that the ESC is a body set up by law passed by the Edo State House of Assembly,” Osagie said. “The IGP’s attempt to suspend the ESC is akin to disbanding the Western Nigeria Security Network, known as Operation Amotekun, ahead of the governorship election in Ondo State next month.”
Osagie highlighted the legal framework that supports the ESC’s existence. He cited Sections 11(1) and 11(2) of the relevant laws, which grant state assemblies the power to establish structures for public safety and security. “It is unconstitutional for the IGP to make such a declaration,” Osagie emphasized.
The suspension of the ESC comes ahead of the governorship election scheduled for September 21, 2024. The IGP’s decision has raised concerns about its timing and potential impact on the electoral process. The ESC has been an integral part of the state’s security infrastructure, and its sudden suspension could affect the security dynamics in the lead-up to the election.
Despite the disagreement with the IGP’s suspension, Governor Obaseki has directed that all ESC officials proceed on leave from September 11 until after the election. This directive aims to ensure peace and stability in the state during the electoral period.
Osagie noted that the governor’s decision to place ESC officials on leave reflects a commitment to maintaining order while addressing the IGP’s actions. “In the interest of peace and to avoid any conflict, Governor Obaseki has decided that ESC officials should take a temporary leave,” he explained.
