Edo Guber: AAC Candidate, Oberiafo Laments Kidnap Attempts
Says His Billboards Are Removed From the Street
By People’s Voice Nigeria | News
The candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) for the September 21 governorship election in Edo State, Mr Udoh Oberiafo has lamented several kidnapped attempt on his life, just as he bemoans the removal of his campaign billboards on the street of Benin-City.
Oberiafo also said his security detail was withdrawn and despite the assurance from the police authority his security detail is yet to be restored.
Speaking in a press conference on Saturday in Benin-City, Edo State capital, ACC candidate cautioned that attacks on him and others participating in the election is a direct attack on the democratic process.
He said, “I have been running my campaign with one mission in mind: to serve the people of Edo State with integrity, fairness, and a deep commitment to positive change.
“I entered this race with the belief that democracy is the foundation upon which we can build a better future for all, where every voice can be heard, and every candidate can compete on a level playing field.
“However, in recent times, my safety has been severely compromised. I have narrowly escaped three kidnap attempts during the course of this campaign. These were not just random acts of violence, they were targeted attacks meant to silence me, to instill fear, and to disrupt the democratic process.
“I also have it on record that my billboards were instructed to be removed across Benin metropolis. As we speak, the vendors have taken monies but stated they were given instructions not to put it up. ”
Continuing, he said,”In addition to these threats, my security details have been inexplicably withdrawn. I am currently disarmed and left vulnerable, despite taking the necessary steps to address this through official channels.
“I have written to the Inspector General of Police, and I met with the Deputy Inspector General in Abuja just last week.
“He assured me that signals would be sent to the various police commands to act swiftly on the matter. But here I stand before you, still waiting for action to be taken, still waiting for the protection that every citizen is entitled to.
“The situation is dire. My life is at risk, and by extension, so is the democratic process in Edo State.
“When a candidate cannot safely campaign, when intimidation and fear become tools in the political arsenal, we must all ask ourselves what kind of democracy we are fostering.” He said.
