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PDP Accuses APC of Using Thugs Disguised as Supporters to Intimidate at Court

Published by Tope Fakinlede on January 15th, 2025.

PDP Accuses APC of Using Thugs Disguised as Supporters to Intimidate at Court

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of deploying armed thugs disguised as PDP supporters to create chaos at the election petition tribunal in Benin City, Edo State. This move, according to the PDP, is part of a larger scheme by the APC to disrupt the proceedings at the tribunal as they face an expected defeat.

On Wednesday, a thug identified as being linked to the APC was seen near the court on Sapele Road, loudly demanding “give us our mandate,” in an apparent attempt to mislead the public into believing he was a PDP supporter. This act, the PDP claims, is a deliberate effort by the APC to tarnish the party’s reputation.

The PDP expressed confidence that the APC’s tactics will not halt the tribunal process, which is a constitutional part of addressing alleged electoral malpractices. The party reiterated that the mandate of the PDP was unjustly taken during the September 21 Edo governorship election, and the people of Edo are determined to see it restored.

The PDP also emphasized its commitment to a peaceful and orderly legal process, instructing its members to stay away from the court premises and let the legal team handle the matter professionally. This directive remains in place despite the ongoing disruptions.

The party has called on the appropriate security forces to intervene and take action against the APC’s hired thugs, who have been seen carrying weapons around the court, with a video of the incident circulating on social media.