In a recent statement, Crusoe Osagie, Special Adviser to the Edo State Governor on Media, emphasized that the Edo Security Corps (ESC) is established by legislation enacted by the Edo State House of Assembly.
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, announced the suspension of the ESC during the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)’s Stakeholder Meeting on September 11, in preparation for the upcoming governorship election on September 21.
Osagie argued that the IGP’s actions are akin to disbanding the Western Nigeria Security Network, known as Operation Amotekun, before the Ondo State governorship election scheduled for next month.
To maintain peace in the state, Governor Godwin Obaseki has instructed all ESC officials to take leave from September 11 until September 23, following the election.
Osagie reiterated that the IGP’s declaration is unconstitutional, citing Sections 11(1) and 11(2), which grant the State House of Assembly the authority to establish structures for public safety and security.