A Benin-based pro-democracy group, Initiative for Democratic Advancement and Free Speech, has raised the alarm over plans by the Peoples Democratic Party to manipulate the ongoing Edo Governorship Election Tribunal Proceedings in Benin City.
In a statement made available to newsmen in Benin City, the Edo State capital, the group vowed to stop and expose PDP leaders who are behind the shenanigans.
Executive Director of the organisation, Patrick Osaigbovo, who hails from Edo South; Director of Research, Andrew Isewele from Edo Central; and Kamaru Momoh, Director of Mobilisation from Edo North, in a joint press statement, called on Edo people to remain vigilant.
The statement reads: “We have received credible information regarding the opposition’s plans to manipulate the legal proceedings in ongoing Governorship Election Tribunal case. These actions include witness tampering, peddling of fake news, plans to bribe judges, and premature celebration despite having a weak case and sponsorship of armed thugs.
“We strongly condemn these unethical and reprehensible tactics. Such actions do not only undermine the integrity of the judicial system but also constitute a grave threat to the rule of law and the democratic principles upon which our nation is founded.
“We urge the relevant authorities, including the judiciary, law enforcement agencies, the bar association, to thoroughly investigate these allegations and take a swift and decisive action against those responsible.
“We will continue to monitor this situation closely, and we will not hesitate to take further actions to ensure that justice is served and the integrity of the judicial system is upheld.
“Edo is not for sale. Those who plan to mortgage our future through the backdoor by trying to manipulate the ongoing Tribunal Proceedings will be resisted by every means possible. We will protect the mandate of Senator Monday Okpebholo, who is the legitimate Governor of Edo State.”