The Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Edo State has denounced the alleged assault on Collins Aigbogun, chairman of Esan West LGA.
News About Nigeria reports that Newman Ugiagbe, the Edo ALGON chairman, described the act “as a clear violation of democratic principles and the rule of law.”
Speaking to journalists on Tuesday at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Secretariat in Benin, the Edo capital, Ugiagbe demanded an urgent investigation by security operatives .
The chairman also asked the state attorney-general to wade in.
He alleged that the All Progressives Congress, APC, was settling for violence and intimidation tactics, including unwarranted attacks on PDP members.
“ALGON calls for swift action to prevent further harm and ensure a free and fair electoral process,” he said.
“The association stands firm in its commitment to promoting peace, democracy, and the rule of law in Edo State.
“We urge all stakeholders, political parties, and security agencies to work together to safeguard the rights and safety of all citizens.”
Speaking further, the ALGON also demanded the immediate release of Aigbogun from the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
Kassim Afegbua, APC campaigns council director, expressed shock and disappointment at ALGON for not reacting to attacks on APC supporters and Edo voters.
He questioned why ALGON was now raising concerns about criminal assault when they had earlier been silent on the issue.
Afegbua stated that the APC had been raising alarms about criminal activities by some PDP stalwarts, but their cries were ignored until they petitioned the Inspector General of Police.
He described the situation as a “theatre of war” with widespread intimidation, harassment, and threats.
“This is an uncivilised way to do politics,” he said.
