By Gabriel Ewepu

A Civil Society Ogranisation, CSO, One Love Foundation, OLF, Friday, called on the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, and the Edo State Commission of Police, CP CP Funsho Adegboye, to arrest and prosecute all those who attacked the convoy of the All Progressives Congress, APC, governorship candidate in Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, and the reinstated Edo State Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu in Benin City.

In a statement, the Founder and President, OLF, Chief Patrick Eholor, condemned the siege and attack by the some hoodlums who had laid siege on the Benin Airport when Okpebholo,  Shaibu, and other passengers on their arrival from Abuja, which also led to the killing of one police operative.

Eholor said: “The recent political violence in Edo State, which resulted in the tragic death of a police officer, has left many concerned about the state of our democracy and the safety of citizens.

“The incident, which occurred after the court’s pronouncement of Philip Shaibu as the Edo State’s Deputy Governor, highlights the urgent need for increased security measures and a thorough investigation into the actions of those involved.

“We implore the Inspector General of Police and the Commissioner of Police in Edo State to take swift action to identify and prosecute the perpetrators of this heinous attack.

“The safety and well-being of our citizens and law enforcement officers must be a top priority, and those responsible for inciting violence and endangering lives must be held accountable for their actions.

“Furthermore, we call on Governor Godwin Obaseki to address the allegations of using state vigilantes for political purposes and thuggery. The misuse of state resources and power for political gain is a direct violation of public trust and a threat to the democratic process.

“We urge the governor to take immediate steps to ensure that such actions are not tolerated within his administration and to work with law enforcement to prevent further incidents of violence.

 “As Nigerians, we must stand together in condemning political violence and advocating for peaceful, democratic processes. We must remember that our strength lies in our unity and our commitment to building a better future for our nation. It is only by working together, with transparency and accountability that we can move forward and ensure that the voices of the people are heard.

“Our thoughts and condolences go out to the family of the fallen police officer, and we thank the men and women of the Edo State Police Command for their dedication and service in protecting our communities.

“We remain hopeful that justice will be served and that the perpetrators of this violence will be held accountable for their actions.”