Operatives of the Nigerian Police Force on Friday rescued a federal lawmaker representing the Esan North-East/Esan South-East Federal Constituency in Edo State, Henry Okojie from being abducted by armed men suspected to be political thugs.
The media aide of the lawmaker, Michael Ihaza, confirmed the development in a statement on Friday, saying that Okojie, the husband of the Nollywood movie Star, Mercy Johnson, was reportedly attacked at his residence by gunmen in a Lexus GX 470 carrying a Rivers State vehicle registration number – PHC 253 FF.
The statement noted that the planned assassination “was unsuccessful owing to the intervention of security personnel attached to the lawmaker”.
“The armed thugs, who disguised as police officers along with two others, invaded the residence of Hon. Okojie, claimed to be on appointment and proceeded to the seating room.
“Following the intervention of the security personnel attached to the lawmaker, two of the armed thugs fled leaving behind the driver and another who are currently being interrogated by officers from the Area Command of the Nigeria Police Force, Uromi.
“The suspects have so far made a confessional statement stating that they were sent on the mission by People’s Democratic Party (PDP) leaders in Esan North East Local Government Area,” the statement added.
This incident came barely 24 hours before the commencement of the Edo State Governorship election.
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, had earlier announced a ban on all security aides and escorts accompanying political leaders to polling booths and collation centres during the gubernatorial election.
The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, disclosed this in a press statement on Friday noting that the directive was part of measures to ensure a peaceful, transparent, and credible electoral process.
Adejobi stated that unauthorised security personnel and quasi-security outfits are prohibited from operating during the election, adding that the use of sirens by unauthorised vehicles is strictly forbidden to ensure a calm environment for voters.
The IGP also mandated that special attention be afforded to individuals with disabilities, pregnant women, nursing mothers, aged, and those with mobility challenges, ensuring that polling stations in both urban and rural settings are accessible to all.
According to the statement, Egbetokun ordered the restriction of all vehicular movement on roads, waterways, and other forms of transportation from 6am to 6 pm on Election Day.
Saharareporters
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