Allegations have surfaced regarding the involvement of Edo State Commissioner of Police, Nemi Edwin-Iwo, in a political strategy allegedly orchestrated by Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Sources suggest that Wike played a role in Edwin-Iwo’s deployment to Edo State, with instructions to target Governor Godwin Obaseki in the lead-up to the gubernatorial election.
Edwin-Iwo and Wike reportedly have a longstanding relationship, having attended university together. This connection is believed to have contributed to Edwin-Iwo’s deployment to Edo. Wike, appointed FCT Minister by President Bola Tinubu, has been accused of using his influence to impact political outcomes in key states, including Edo.
Sources claim that Wike and Edwin-Iwo have a close bond, and that Edwin-Iwo was transferred to Edo State to “deal with Obaseki” and weaken the PDP’s chances. Governor Obaseki has reportedly been targeted by this campaign, despite being in the same party as Wike. Wike has openly supported the APC’s candidate for the Edo governorship election, Senator Monday Okpebholo.
A senior police officer confirmed that specific directives were given to Edwin-Iwo upon his deployment to Edo. The plan allegedly involves using the state’s security forces to create a hostile environment for the governor and his supporters while ensuring that APC activities go unchallenged.
This strategy has raised concerns about the fairness of the electoral process. Civil society groups and election observers have called for vigilance and transparency to ensure a free and fair election. An investigation into the circumstances surrounding Edwin-Iwo’s deployment has been requested.
