16th May, 2012
The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Nigeria’s Edo state has accused Governor Adams Oshiomhole of uncivil and violent protests, and said that such actions were capable of causing anarchy in the state. A press statement signed by Chief Dan Orbih, the state PDP Chairman, in Benin on Wednesday stated that there had been three unlawful protests organised by the Edo governor.
Orbih described the action as executive rascality, and said that Adams Oshiomhole led the first protest to the Palace of the Oba of Benin.
He pointed out that the second protest was to the State Police Command and thirdly to the INEC office.
Orbih said, “These actions by a chief executive of a state are condemnable and an impeachable offence.”
“Gov. Oshiomhole needs to be reminded that he is no longer a labour leader, but a serving governor and, therefore, cannot lead unwarranted protest marches in disregard to the rule of law.
“Gov. Adams Oshiomhole and the ACN have lost direction, hold and initiative, as the first citizen of the state,” the PDP boss stated.
He said that the PDP was focused, prepared and determined to give its best in the election and that Oshiomhole and his ACN’s fears notwithstanding, the party was poised to win the election.
“And instead of unthinkingly accusing the PDP of any clandestine moves, Oshiomhole should go and prepare, as the PDP had done and was doing to contest the election decently.
In his reaction, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, Director-General, Oshiomhole Campaign organisation, said that Oshiomhole did not lead any unlawful protest to INEC.
Ize-Iyamu also said that there was freedom of movement and expression, adding that before Oshiomhole embarked on any campaign exercise he alerted the police and other security agencies.
“Oshiomhole like any other citizen has the right to protest over irregularities of INEC, especially when INEC is been funded with tax payers money. The constitution has provided for the freedom of speech and association, Anybody including the governor can protest against any irregularities. Any body, who is not satisfied can go to court to contest the action,’’ he said