Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu has described as appalling and heartwrenching the unprovoked attack on his campaign personnel and property.
Recall that the Philip Shaibu Campaign Organization on Sunday condemned the recent attack on the campaign vehicle of the deputy governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu in Ekpoma, Esan local government area of Edo State.
Esan Coordinator for Philip Shaibu Campaign, Mr. Otoide Abas, after holding several meetings with Ward 10 (Illeh) PDP faithful and on his way to meet other supporters in Ekpoma, a popular transport company’s white Hummer bus, (Name Withheld) was reported to have appeared, where some heavily armed hoodlums numbering about seven emerged from it, creating fear and panic by shooting indiscriminately.
Mr. Otoide reported that the same vehicle and occupants had earlier visited Illeh after the meeting, where they maliciously vandalized the chairs and canopies used for the gathering. The hoodlums then took their time to thoroughly destroy the Philip Shaibu vehicle, firing multiple shots at it while Mr. Otoide and others sought safety.
Reacting to the unfortunate incident, the Deputy Governor in a press statement released Tuesday morning, labelled the unholy act as disheartening.
“I, Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu, the Deputy Governor of Edo State, hereby condemns in the strongest terms the unprovoked attack on my supporters and campaign vehicle in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State yesterday.”
“It is disheartening and appalling that such a cowardly act of violence could be perpetrated against innocent citizens who were peacefully expressing their support for our cause. This attack is not only an assault on democracy but also a threat to the peace and stability of our great state.”
“I urge all my supporters, as well as the good and peace-loving people of Edo State, not to allow themselves to be provoked by this attack. The perpetrators aim to incite violence and disrupt the peaceful atmosphere that we have worked hard to foster in our state.”
“Let it be known that the era of hooliganism and violence in politics is long gone. Today, we live in a society where issues, ideas, and programmes should be the driving force behind political engagements. We must not be drawn into the dark abyss of violence and chaos, but rather, we should focus on engaging in constructive debates and discussions that will move our state forward.”
“I hereby appeal to the security agencies in the state to carry out a thorough investigation into this attack. Those responsible for this dastardly act of cowardice must be brought to book and face the full weight of the law. The people of Edo State deserve to live in peace and security, and we must ensure that justice is served.”
“I assure my esteemed supporters, the good people of Edo State that we will not be deterred by such acts of violence. We remain committed to our mission of building a better and prosperous state for all our citizens. Let us stand united against violence and strive for a peaceful and inclusive political landscape.”