As a fallout of the lingering political crisis in Edo State, the state Government on Friday announced a total ban on all political rallies, demonstrations or procession in the state.
A statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie, announcing the ban also directed all security agencies to deal decisively with all persons, no matter how highly placed who breach the directive.
Ogie, noted that the state government had made clear it’s position that ‘plans by some identified mischief-makers to organise an unauthorised political rally in Benin City was capable of leading to a breakdown of public peace and also danger to the persons and property of Edo citizens.’
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The statement also made reference to the clash between supporters of the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Adams Oshiomhole and the state governor Godwin Obaseki which left about 15 people injured on Thursday.
It warned property owners that any venue used for activities in breach of the ban would have its right of occupancy immediately revoked and forfeited to the state government.
“The events of yesterday 12th December, 2019 were a scary prelude to the absolute mayhem which these irresponsible activities would generate if left unchecked.
“In defiance of the clear and publicized instruction of the Inspector General of Police, calling off the proposed rally owing to security implications, these desperate persons are presently shopping around for alternative venues to carry out their incendiary activities.”
Recall that supporters of Oshiomhole had planned a welcome rally for Mr. Osagie Ize-Iyamu, a former Peoples Democratic Party governorship candidate who recently defected to the APC.
The rally scheduled for Friday was however allegedly canceled by the Inspector-General of Police, Adamu Mohammed via a letter to the state Deputy Governor.