Tension in Edo LG as thugs seize secretariat, bar chairman from office

Suspected political thugs disrupted operations at the Oredo Local Government Area (LGA) secretariat in Edo State on Monday, barring Chairman Tom Obaseki from accessing his office.  

Reports indicate that the armed individuals strategically positioned themselves around the secretariat while chanting war songs, creating an atmosphere of intimidation.

The incident forced Obaseki, who had arrived to resume his official duties, to retreat from the premises.

Speaking to journalists outside the council grounds, Obaseki expressed his dismay at the situation:

“I came here to continue my work as the elected chairman of Oredo Local Government. However, I encountered a group of thugs who had already taken over the council.”

The unsettling development has drawn attention to the ongoing tensions in the region, with calls for swift action to restore order and ensure the safety of public officials and institutions.

“This is a very disturbing trend. We are calling on the security agencies to arrest the situation. What is important is that we have a restraining order.”

Obaseki had resumed for the day, following the Edo State High Court ruling on Friday which nullified his suspension alongside 17 other council chairmen.

The 18 council chairmen and their deputies were suspended by the Edo State House of Assembly following a petition by Governor Monday Okpebholo in which he accused them of alleged insubordination and gross misconduct.