Crusoe Osagie, media aide to former governor Godwin Obaseki, has raised alarm over what he describes as a worrying transformation of Edo State into a lawless “gangland” under the leadership of Governor Monday Okpebholo. In a detailed piece, Osagie outlined reports of rampant thuggery, intimidation, and illegal activities that are seemingly orchestrated or condoned by the state government.
Osagie paints a grim picture of a state plagued by violence and lawlessness. According to him, thugs and non-state actors—referred to as “lions and tigers” by the All Progressives Congress (APC)—have taken control of public spaces, harassing and intimidating citizens. He noted that markets, motor parks, and even political party offices have been targeted, with the Secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) violently seized by armed groups loyal to the ruling government. The incident, which involved vandalism and physical threats, was described as one of the most brazen attacks on democracy since Nigeria’s return to civilian rule in 1999.
Osagie also highlighted incidents of violence near the Edo Governorship Election Tribunal, where masked gunmen reportedly disrupted proceedings, causing panic and jeopardizing public safety. He identified the perpetrators as individuals tied to government-backed organizations, raising concerns about the state’s complicity in the ongoing crisis.
Osagie’s report further underscores the impact of the insecurity on the state’s economy and social fabric. Businesses are closing early, local government leaders are being intimidated, and public confidence in security agencies is at an all-time low. Osagie further warns that Edo State is on the brink of complete anarchy unless decisive actions are taken to restore constitutional democracy and the rule of law.
As these incidents reverberate across the state, citizens and stakeholders are calling for urgent interventions to address the deteriorating security situation and safeguard Edo’s democratic institutions.