Youths of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State have raised the alarm over alleged intimidation and harassment of local government officials, warning the state government to end what they describe as a “regime of terror.”
Leading the charge is Mr. Aimiebenomon Ofure Paul, the PDP Youth Leader for Esan South East Local Government Area. In a passionate video statement released on Sunday, he accused the administration of Monday Okpebholo of using coercive tactics against democratically elected council chairmen, vice chairmen, and councillors across the state.
“We have endured enough,” Ofure declared. “Nobody has the monopoly of violence. Our patience should not be mistaken for weakness.”
A State Gripped by Crisis
The current crisis has thrown Edo State into political chaos. Local government leaders, who were elected under the PDP banner, are allegedly being subjected to forced evictions and public humiliation despite court rulings affirming their legitimacy.
In his video message, which has since gone viral, Ofure accused the state government of flouting the rule of law. “This governor, who should be a symbol of democracy and representation, is instead chasing, flogging, and beating duly elected leaders,” he stated.
The situation, he added, has escalated to the point where PDP leaders feel compelled to publicly call for intervention from higher authorities, including the Attorney General of the Federation and the Inspector General of Police.
“We Abhor Violence, But We Are Not Weak”
Ofure emphasized that the PDP is a peace-loving party, aligning his message with the ideals of prominent party leaders like Dr. Asue Ighodalo, who advocates non-violence. However, he issued a stern warning: “There’s a limit to what we can tolerate. Enough is enough.”
The youth leader also highlighted the stark contrast between PDP’s peaceful approach and the actions of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state. He accused Okpebholo of deploying outsiders to target his Esan community.
“How can an Esan man, Okpebholo, bring people from Benin and Edo North to humiliate his own Esan brothers and sisters?” Ofure questioned.
Youths as Political Tools
The crisis has also ignited a debate about the role of young people in Edo State politics. Ofure criticized the APC for allegedly exploiting its youth wing, offering them no substantial roles in governance while promoting the offspring of party elites.
“Look at Cyril Oshiomhole, the Commissioner for Health—he’s carrying a pen, not a gun or whip,” Ofure remarked, comparing him to the young APC supporters allegedly used for violent acts. “Why are APC youths not considered for commissioner roles? They use you as thugs while they position their own children in power.”
He implored APC youths to rethink their allegiance, urging them to prioritize their futures over serving as tools of oppression.
Court Orders Ignored
Ofure pointed out that the harassment continues despite court orders that should protect the embattled local government officials. “This administration has made it clear that it believes it is above the law,” he said.
Observers have noted that the state’s political tensions are rooted in last year’s local government elections, where the PDP won significant victories. Instead of accepting the outcome, the APC has allegedly resorted to strong-arm tactics to undermine opposition officials.
A Call for National Intervention
The PDP youths have called on federal authorities to step in and address the situation. Ofure emphasized that this is not just a local issue but a matter of national importance. “This is a democracy. You don’t steal mandates or force yourself on the people,” he said.
The youth leader’s message was also directed at the Inspector General of Police and the Edo State Commissioner of Police, urging them to ensure law and order are upheld.
What Lies Ahead
The crisis in Edo State reflects broader tensions in Nigerian politics, where allegations of intimidation and disregard for court rulings are not uncommon. Analysts warn that if left unchecked, the situation could escalate into more significant unrest.
As Ofure’s video continues to circulate, public pressure on the Okpebholo administration is mounting. Many are now watching to see whether the state government will heed the calls for peace and respect for the rule of law.
For the PDP youths, the message is clear: “We are people of peace, but peace should never be mistaken for weakness.”
