Edo 2020: I Didn’t Threaten Violence – Oshiomhole

Former national chairman of the All Progressive Congress (APC) has denied threatening violence ahead of the Edo State governorship election.

Oshiomhole rather accused the incumbent Governor, Godwin Obaseki of issuing the threat of violence in the state.

The former governor’s statement was in response to the declaration by Governor Obaseki who on Sunday warned perpetrators of violence in the state of stiff penalties ahead of the poll.

Condemning the July 25 clash by thugs at the gate of the Palace of the Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin, the Governor warned those with intent on disturbing public peace that he is determined to carry out his primary responsibility of maintaining order and protecting lives and properties as the Chief Security Officer of the state.

But reacting in an interview with Arise TV on Monday, Oshiomhole expressed regret that violence was now being associated with the state.

He said during his eight year tenure, many peaceful polls were held in the state on account of his campaign for “one man, one vote,” adding that voters will not be dissuaded by threats of violence.

“During the election of Governor Obaseki, when I was the sitting governor, not one shot was fired,” he said.

“My campaign for one-man one-vote dismantled those who use violence to conduct elections instead of ballot papers. I have a track record, which I want to protect.”

The ex-APC national chairman claimed that his supporters were shot at recently by thugs of political opponents, of which he did not retaliate “because I am someone who has never relied on thugs”.

“Before now, I have complained about a situation where Obaseki said I should not come to Edo, that before I come to Edo, I must get permission,” he added.

“I watched a clip on Channels Television where the governor said: ‘I am the governor, between me and the deputy, we are the two persons who have immunity, I will arrest anybody who does XYZ. I will arrest him’.

“He did not say he will report to the police. So he is above the law. That ‘if they want violence we will give them violence’. A leader does not talk like that.”