Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has described the upcoming September 21 governorship election as a “do or die.” affair, heightening concerns over the integrity and security of the electoral process. This statement comes just two days after the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) refused to sign the Peace Accord for the election.

During a visit from Abdulsalami Abubakar, the former military Head of State and Chairman of the National Peace Committee, Obaseki accused the police of bias, alleging they were siding with the All Progressives Congress (APC). He expressed frustration over law enforcement being used to target PDP members rather than ensuring a peaceful electoral process.

Obaseki revealed that ten PDP members, including a Local Government Area (LGA) chairman, were detained without sufficient evidence against them. “Unlike 2020, I am very worried about the developments in the state today,” he said, adding, “The party met yesterday, and we may not sign this agreement.”

He criticized the current situation, stating, “The entity supposed to maintain and enforce the peace accord is now actively creating a destructive environment.” The governor further alleged that the APC intends to use federal power to influence the election’s outcome.

At the PDP’s grand campaign finale in Oredo LGA, Obaseki highlighted his administration’s achievements and urged voters to support the PDP candidate, Asue Ighodalo. He contrasted his tenure with that of his predecessor, whom he accused of disrespecting the people and promoting women’s trafficking. “This election is a do or die. Do you want insecurity? Do you want people that didn’t go to school to lead us?” he questioned the crowd.

In a related event, Governor Obaseki welcomed key APC figures, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, to Edo State for the grand finale of Senator Monday Okpebholo’s campaign. Other notable attendees included Senate President Godswill Akpabio, APC National Chairman Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, APC governors, and party officials.