The Edo State Government has accused leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of sponsoring violent crimes, including kidnappings and targeted attacks, to destabilize the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo.
In a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Fred Itua, the government claimed that intelligence reports have linked key PDP figures to the recent surge in criminal activities across the state.
It alleged that these acts were part of a broader strategy to create chaos, discredit the current administration, and undermine public confidence in governance.
“The resilience of Edo State is being tested by evil merchants—individuals who are funding violent crimes, particularly kidnappings,” the statement read.
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“Security sources indicate that certain PDP leaders are not only financing these acts of terror but are also using them as political tools to paint the government in a bad light.”
The government further accused the opposition party of flooding the state with illegal arms during the 2024 governorship election and failing to retrieve them afterwards.
This, it claimed, has contributed to the proliferation of weapons and the rise in criminal activities.
“Instead of playing the role of a responsible opposition, PDP leaders have resorted to misinformation campaigns and tacit support for violent actors, eroding public trust in governance,” the statement continued.
Governor Okpebholo’s administration called on the Nigeria Police and other security agencies to conduct a full-scale investigation into the alleged involvement of PDP leaders in the security crisis.
It insisted that those found culpable must face the full weight of the law.
“The security and stability of Edo State must come before partisan interests. Insecurity thrives when perpetrators believe they are above the law. Now is the time for authorities to prove otherwise,” Itua stated.
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The government also urged Edo residents to remain vigilant, reject false narratives, and support ongoing efforts to restore peace and order.
