Edo Governorship Election: Police Withdraw Security for Oshiomhole, Others

Ahead of the upcoming Edo State governorship election, the Nigerian Police have announced the withdrawal of VIP protection for several high-profile individuals, including Senator Adams Oshiomhole. Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG), Frank Mba, disclosed that all police orderlies and VIP security details will be deactivated 48 hours before the election.

Speaking at the Edo Security Town Hall meeting on Sunday, Mba explained that only the sitting governor, Godwin Obaseki, and his deputy will retain their security personnel. However, these officials will not be permitted to have their security teams accompany them to polling stations.

Mba also revealed that the police will place special focus on securing Edo State borders to ensure a peaceful election. “We will clearly demobilise, and deactivate orderlies and VIP protection personnel 48 hours before the election,” he said. “The governor and deputy governor will keep personal security, but these personnel are not allowed to accompany them to the electoral ground.”

As the governorship race heats up, candidates including Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party are seen as the main contenders. The election, scheduled for Saturday next week, is expected to be highly competitive.

The withdrawal of security personnel follows Governor Obaseki’s statement last Saturday, where he described the election as a “do-or-die” affair. His refusal to sign a peace accord has added further tension to the political landscape.