Benin City, Edo State – 22nd September 2024In a dramatic turn of events early Sunday morning, Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State was forcibly removed from the premises of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Benin City by Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Frank Mba. The incident unfolded shortly after 2 AM, as Obaseki was present at the INEC office to monitor the collation of results from the governorship election held the previous day.
Reports indicate that Obaseki gained access to the INEC office under the cover of darkness, making his way upstairs to sit near the office of the Edo State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) where election results were being collated. However, his presence did not go unnoticed, sparking protests from members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), led by Monday Okpebholo’s running mate, Dennis Idahosa.
Around 3:30 AM, a group of APC supporters gathered outside the INEC premises, demanding the governor’s exit. As tensions escalated, the protesters attempted to breach the gates of the INEC office, banging on them in a bid to gain entry.
Protesters Demand Obaseki’s Exit
As the protests intensified, Surajudeen Basiru, the National Secretary of the APC, addressed journalists outside the INEC office, asserting that Governor Obaseki had no legitimate reason to be present at the collation center. “He is not a candidate. He has no reason to be here,” Basiru stated, labeling the governor’s actions as an abuse of power.
The atmosphere grew increasingly charged as mobile policemen deployed to maintain order began shouting at Obaseki to leave the premises. Just before he was escorted out by DIG Mba and a contingent of police officers, the situation reached a boiling point, with protesters chanting and demanding accountability.
DIG Mba Steps In
DIG Frank Mba’s arrival marked a crucial moment in the unfolding drama. Upon entering the premises, he proceeded directly to where Obaseki was seated and engaged in discussions with the governor before ultimately leading him out of the INEC office. The governor’s removal was met with a mix of cheers and jeers from the gathered crowd.
Obaseki’s unexpected presence at the INEC office has raised questions about the role of incumbents in electoral processes, particularly in a state where political rivalries run deep. As the situation develops, all eyes remain on the final election results and the implications for governance in Edo State.