Edo Poll: Police nab two political thugs, recover firearms

Abdullateef Fowewe

Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force deployed to curb electoral violence in Edo State, have arrested two political thugs, Edwin Obanor, and Audu Tajudeen, believed to be members of the Peoples Democratic Party from Ugbogbo quarters, Igara Akoko, Edo, during overnight raid.

A statement on Saturday signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi stated various firearms were recovered from the suspects.

The statement reads, “The Nigeria Police Force has made a significant breakthrough in its efforts to curb electoral violence in Edo State with the arrest of two political thugs, namely: Edwin Obanor, 43-year-old and Audu Tajudeen, a 41-year-old PDP member from Ugbogbo quarters, Igara Akoko, Edo.

“Acting on a tip-off that some individuals had been armed to cause mayhem and distability during the election on Saturday, the police operatives swooped into action and apprehended Obanor, a leader of an armed group, at Oredo Ward 4 at about 9pm and Audu Tajudeen at Igara Akoko, Edo, on the eve of the election. Upon searching the bags in their possession, three cut-to-size locally fabricated pistols were discovered on Obanor, while one locally made gun was recovered from Tajudeen.

“These arrests are a testament to the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to maintaining law and order and ensuring a peaceful electoral process. The police and other supporting security agencies will not tolerate any form of violence or disorderliness during the election in Edo State.”

The suspects are in the police custody and will face the full weight of the law.

“The Police reassures the public of its dedication to protecting lives and property and, therefore, urges citizens to report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or via our published help lines,” the statement added.

The Edo State Governorship election is scheduled for today, September 21.