A mild drama unfolded on Monday at the Isabo area of Abeokuta, as the Ogun State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal became the target of a group of hoodlums suspected to be political thugs. The presence of these troublemakers caused chaos and forced politicians to flee the venue.
The political thugs, numbering in large groups, stormed the court premises to show their support for their respective political parties as the Tribunal commenced its proceedings. The situation quickly escalated when clashes erupted between supporters of the two major political parties in the state: the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Eyewitnesses reported that some of the thugs were seen brandishing canes, exacerbating the tension among the rival party supporters. It was only through the intervention of heavily armed security operatives, including the police, Department of State Services (DSS), and Civil Defense, that the thugs were eventually dispersed, allowing peace to be restored temporarily.
In an effort to maintain order, the security operatives restricted the entry of political supporters into the court premises. Additionally, the road leading to the tribunal was barricaded, causing a disruption in vehicular movement.
However, the situation took a worrisome turn when the thugs reconvened on the road opposite the court premises. This development sparked anxiety among residents and heightened security concerns in the area.
The Ogun State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal has a critical task ahead, as it is responsible for determining the rightful winner of the governorship election held on March 18. Incumbent Governor Dapo Abiodun was initially declared the winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). However, his victory is now being challenged by Ladi Adebutu, the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
According to INEC’s announcement, Abiodun secured 276,298 votes, defeating his closest rivals, Ladi Adebutu of the PDP, who garnered 262,383 votes, and Biyi Otegbeye of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), who received 94,754 votes. It is worth noting that Otegbeye has the backing of the former governor and serving APC Senator, Ibikunle Amosun.
One member of the PDP claimed to have been assaulted by the thugs, resulting in the loss of his phone, money, and other personal belongings during the altercation.
The incident at the Ogun State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal highlights the pressing need for adequate security measures during such proceedings. It is hoped that further disruptions will be prevented, enabling a fair and unbiased resolution to the election dispute.
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