A pro-democracy group, Movement For Democracy, has extended its condolences to the Nigeria Police Force, Edo State Command, over the death of an inspector, Onu Ako.
Inspector Ako died last Thursday when violence occurred at the Benin Airport shortly after the reinstated deputy governor, Philip Shaibu, and the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Monday Okpebholo, arrived in Edo state from Abuja.
In a statement sent to journalists on Monday and signed by its convener, Osaze Samuel, the Movement for Democracy condoled with the family and friends of the police officer who tragically lost his life in the line of duty.
Part of the statement read: ”This loss, a direct consequence of the political misconduct of APC candidate Monday Okpebholo, is a testament to the grave consequences of political recklessness introduced by the senator.
”It is profoundly disheartening that an innocent officer and citizen of Nigeria had to sacrifice his life due to the political misconduct and ignorance exhibited by individuals who should know better.
”It is even more troubling that these individuals, whose actions led to this tragedy, seek to lead Edo State while placing their ambitions above the safety and well-being of the public.
”The death of this dedicated officer was entirely avoidable. If the APC candidate had conducted himself with the civility and respect expected from someone in his position, this incident might have been averted.”
Commenting on the mini rally at the airport before the violence broke out, the group stated that the court’s judgement in favour of the former deputy governor ”should have been a matter of legal process, not an excuse for public demonstration or political theatrics.”
”Rather than respecting the security advice provided by the Commissioner of Police, Edo State, and opting for a more discreet approach, the APC candidate chose to lead a public procession.
”This act of defiance, in collaboration with Phillip Shaibu—known for his violent tendencies and disregard for authority—demonstrates a reckless pursuit of personal and political gain at the expense of public safety.
”We commend the Nigerian Bar Association and the citizens of Edo State who have condemned this dangerous behaviour.
”It is imperative that the APC candidate be held accountable for the actions that led to this officer’s death. He must be called upon to explain his role in this tragic incident and to account for his blatant disregard for security protocols,” the group added.
The Movement for Democracy further stated that ”Okpebholo’s actions were intended to exploit the situation for political gain and to elicit sympathy from the electorate.”
”However, the people of Edo State have shown through their reactions that they will not be swayed by such deceitful tactics.
”We call upon all well-meaning citizens of Edo State to reject the APC and its candidate. It is clear that this group is unfit to lead Edo State or any progressive and civilized society,” the statement concluded.