Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki has ignited controversy by declaring that the upcoming election is a “do or die” situation, emphasizing that the stakes are extraordinarily high. In a recent interview, he stated, “It’s a do or die because if they do, we die,” expressing concerns about what he describes as reckless behavior from the opposition party.
Obaseki defended his statement, pointing to alarming events leading up to the election and highlighting discrepancies in security resources between himself and former governors. He noted that while he is the sitting governor, a former governor campaigning for the opposition has access to more security, including police helicopters.
Citing disturbing incidents of violence and intimidation, he revealed, “As of 2 a.m. today in Agena Bode, two people were kidnapped,” alleging that armed policemen are being deployed to suppress political dissent. He lamented that the police investigations seem biased against his party, particularly regarding a police officer’s murder linked to an opposition event.
Obaseki’s remarks have drawn criticism from opposition figures, who suggest he is attempting to deflect attention from his party’s potential loss in the election.