By Yahaya Idris, Edo
A dramatic scene unfolded today in Esan land of Edo State as team of armed police officers from Abuja, the federal Capital Territory, attempted to arrest a prominent chieftain of the People’s Democratic Party, and Edo State strong politician, Chief Francis Inegbeniki.
Investigation revealed that a team of armed police officers arrived at the Esan area of Edo State in the early hours of Wednesday 28, 2024, seeking to effect the arrest of Chief Inegbeniki, a former chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC.
However, the politician’s supporters and security personnel resisted the attempt, leading to a standoff.
According to eyewitness, the reasons behind the attempted arrest are not yet clear, but sources suggest it may be related to his sincere support and commitment to ensure his party, the PDP win the September 21 governorship election in Edo State.
The incident has sparked a heated debate on the Social Media, with some condemning the police action as politically motivated and others calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to quickly intervene as to avoid breaking down of law and order in the State.
Source who spoke with our correspondent said unknown police squad believed to be from Abuja arrived in Esan hours ago to arrest Chief Francis Inegbeniki, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, who recently left the All Progressive Congress, APC, for undisclosed offenses.
As at the time of filling this report, the issues are unclear, however, it cannot be unconnected with the September 21st election where the PDP candidate, Dr Asue Ighodalo is leading in conducted polls thereby unsettling APC, hence the reliance on intimidation and molestation.
There have been reports of arbitrary arrest of members of the PDP across the state with the aim of instilling fear in their hearts as to bring about apathy.
The situation remains tense, with the politician’s whereabouts currently unknown.
Further updates will be provided as the situation developed as our correspondent is on ground to monitor the situation to its logical conclusion.
