“Do or Die Election”: Group berates Obaseki over inflammatory remarks

From Moshood Karim

Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has declared the forthcoming 2024 gubernatorial election a “do or die” affair.
This remark has sparked outrage and condemnation from multiple sectors, with the Edo South Patriotic Forum (ESPF) being one of the most vocal critics.

Obaseki had said: “The person I took over from had no respect for our people, had no respect for women, encouraged prostitution and women’s trafficking.

The ESPF, a well-established Benin-based advocacy group dedicated to the stability and welfare of Edo State, strongly condemned the governor’s rhetoric.

Led by its president, Chief Emmanuel Aigbe, the forum described the statement as both irresponsible and dangerous, accusing governor Obaseki of attempting to undermine the State’s political stability.

“Governor Obaseki’s words are more than just inflammatory—they are a call to arms that could destabilise our community and incite violence,” stated Chief Aigbe.
“Such rhetoric undermines the democratic process and threatens the peace and security of our State.”

The ESPF has warned that the governor’s remarks could lead to several serious consequences:

1. Escalation of Violence: The “do or die” language could embolden extremist groups, leading to increased political violence and putting innocent lives at risk.

2. Intimidation of Voters: The threat of violence may discourage voters from participating in the election, undermining the fairness of the electoral process.

3. Disruption of Peace: Reckless statements could further fuel tensions, disrupt daily activities, and destabilize the socio-political environment of Edo State.

Additionally, the ESPF lambasted the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for seemingly endorsing this rhetoric, suggesting that such tactics could be part of a larger strategy to manipulate the electoral outcome through fear and intimidation.

In response to the growing concerns, the ESPF has called for urgent action to safeguard the peace and security of Edo State. They are urging all political stakeholders to denounce any inflammatory rhetoric and commit to a peaceful and fair election.

Chief Emmanuel Aigbe reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to upholding peace, advocating for the protection of every Edo citizen’s democratic rights, and ensuring a transparent electoral process as the 2024 elections draw closer.