By Seyi Babalola
Sunday, a disturbing incident unfolded in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State, as individuals reportedly affiliated with a PDP aspirant attacked a Sienna vehicle belonging to the Philip Shaibu Campaign driven by the Coordinator of the campaign in Esan West, Mr. Otoide Abas.
Witness said the coordinator had just concluded a meeting with Ward 10 (Illeh) PDP faithful when the incident occurred. The meeting commenced at 5:00 pm and concluded an hour later, after which Mr. Otoide left Illeh for Ekpoma to meet with other supporters. Upon completing his engagements in Ekpoma, he decided to make a quick stop at the local market square in Ekpoma to purchase some beef barbecue (Suya).
It was during this time that he noticed a white Hummer bus, labeled “Ameosa Motors,” parked nearby. Suddenly, several hoodlums emerged from the bus, shooting sporadically to create fear and panic among the crowd. Mr. Otoide reported that the same vehicle and occupants had earlier visited Illeh after the meeting, where they vandalized the chairs and canopies used for the gathering.
As Mr Otoide and other occupants of the Philip Shaibu Campaign vehicle scrambled for safety, the hoodlums took their time to thoroughly destroy the vehicle, firing multiple shots at it.
Subsequent investigations revealed that the bus used by the assailants was the same one that transported thugs accompanying the said PDP aspirant to the Uchi Day celebration in Auchi last week.
As of press time, the Coordinator of Philip Shaibu Campaign Organization in Esan West Local Government Area remains at the Ekpoma Police station, providing his statement while the vehicle is being held as evidence.
Philip Shaibu, the Deputy Governor of Edo State and a prominent contender in the Edo 2024 gubernatorial election under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) platform, has experienced numerous attempts to impede his campaign. State-sponsored thugs have repeatedly vandalized his billboards, targeting his candidacy.
Comrade Philip Shaibu remains committed to his mission of reclaiming the state from business-oriented individuals who prioritize personal gains over the welfare of the people. Consequently, it is unsurprising that government agents are resorting to violent acts against his campaign.
In light of these distressing events, the security agencies in the state must heed the call and compel the government to reign in their agents. Such acts not only undermine the democratic process but also betray the peaceful people of Edo State, who have chosen to participate in a democratic election to liberate their state from conniving capitalists masquerading as statesmen.
The safety and security of all participants in the election must be ensured, and those responsible for these attacks must face the full force of the law.
