The Edo State Government has praised the swift response of military personnel in repelling armed thugs who attempted to hijack the Oredo Local Government office of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
According to reports, the thugs stormed the INEC premises along Ekehuan Road but were promptly forced back by soldiers.
At a Friday press briefing, Edo’s Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, alongside the Governor’s Special Adviser on Media, Crusoe Osagie, lauded the military’s efforts.
Nehikhare stated that while similar attacks were reported in other local government areas such as Etsako West and Esan West, soldiers successfully regained control at Oredo.
The government encouraged soldiers to continue protecting collation centres across the state, urging citizens not to be intimidated and to come out to vote without fear.
Osagie also reassured voters that the military presence would ensure their safety on election day.
“At the moment, the Ordeo local government INEC office, there was an attempt by some thugs to overrun the place, but we understand now that they have been pushed back by special forces and the military.
“All is well, the city is calm, the people should be ready to come out tomorrow to exercise their franchise and vote for whoever they want to choose as their governor for the next four years, they should not be intimidated, they should not feel frightened, the military people will be all over the place protecting them,” he added.
