Political tensions are increasing in Edo State as Odion Olaye, the Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), made controversial remarks during a recent campaign rally in Egor, Benin City.
His comments, which were made in support of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate Asue Ighodalo, have stirred significant debate in the lead-up to the gubernatorial election scheduled for September 21.
A viral video shows Olaye expressing confidence in the PDP’s success, boldly predicting that Egor will overwhelmingly support the party. However, it was his alarming warning that has truly ignited controversy: Olaye threatened that if the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) fails to declare Ighodalo the victor, “Edo state will burn.”
These incendiary remarks have heightened fears of potential unrest, prompting various groups to urge a focus on peaceful democratic practices rather than divisive language.
“I guarantee you that our party, the PDP, will secure 80 percent of the votes in Egor on the 21st, and by the 22nd, I expect Asue Ighodalo to be declared the winner,” Olaye declared. “If this does not happen, there will be chaos in Edo state.”
Olaye’s statements come amidst a backdrop of mutual accusations between political parties. Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, the state PDP Chairman, alleged that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is planning to deploy fake INEC personnel disguised as technical staff to manipulate the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS).
In response, Prince Kassim Afegbua, the Media Director for the APC Campaign Council, dismissed these allegations as unfounded.
