Edo Governorship Election is a Do-or-Die Affair, Says Obaseki

Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has reiterated his stance that the upcoming September 21 governorship election in the state is a “do-or-die” affair.

This statement has drawn significant criticism, particularly from the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking on Politics Today, a programme on Channels Television, on Thursday, Obaseki defended his comments, stating that the stakes in the election are high, as the people of Edo would suffer dire consequences if the APC were to take control of the state.

According to Obaseki, the APC has allegedly perfected plans to rig the election in their favour, and he warned that the citizens of Edo would strongly resist any attempt to manipulate the process.

“It’s a do-or-die affair because if they take over, we are doomed.

The level of impunity, the level of recklessness we see in the opposition party—if they take over Edo State, that is the end,” Obaseki stated.

The governor also expressed his concerns regarding the role of the police in the upcoming election, accusing them of bias and unprofessional conduct.

He argued that the actions of law enforcement appear to favour the opposition, raising doubts about the fairness of the electoral process.

“If you see the evidence of what they have done, the blatant way they have gone about it, it is like they forget that the police are funded by taxpayers’ money—Nigerian taxpayers’ money.

They should just be a bit more professional and unbiased,” Obaseki added.

Despite the mounting criticism from opposition parties and various quarters, Obaseki has remained steadfast, insisting that the future of Edo State is at stake.

His remarks have further heightened tensions as the state prepares for a highly contested election on Saturday.