The Labour Party’s gubernatorial candidate for the upcoming September 21, 2024, governorship election in Edo State, Olumide Akpata, has been summoned by the State Police Command regarding alleged security breaches related to shootings at the University of Benin (UNIBEN) last Friday.
Chidi Nwabuzor, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, revealed this development to reporters in Benin City. Nwabuzor explained that the invitation was delivered to Akpata by investigators during the Political Desk Session of the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) on Tuesday, April 16, 2024.
Akpata was reportedly assaulted by suspected political thugs during an investiture ceremony hosted by the UNIBEN Staff Club. He claimed the attack was orchestrated by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state and the State Government with the intent to assassinate him.
The police spokesperson further clarified that Akpata’s invitation was part of the ongoing investigation into the incident. The State Chairman of the Labour Party, Kelly Ogbaloi, confirmed receiving the police invitation and pledged to comply.
He stated that while Akpata was invited by UNIBEN for personal recognition, the party had no involvement. Ogbaloi expressed confusion over why he was also summoned but assured he would attend.
In the meantime, both the Edo State Government and UNIBEN authorities condemned the attack on Akpata. The Edo State Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Osa Nehikhare, denounced the violence and assured of an ongoing investigation.
He warned against such behavior and emphasized the government’s commitment to maintaining peace and security. Similarly, the university management termed the incident unacceptable and announced the formation of a committee, chaired by Professor Frederick Ekhaise, to investigate the matter within one week.
