ALGON Demands Immediate Release Of Esan West LGC Chairman, Aigbogun

By Simeon OSAJIE

The Edo State chapter of Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON) has called on the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun to release the Chairman, Esan West Local Government Area, Mr. Collins Aigbogun who is currently in police custody.

Addressing journalists in Benin, the Chairman of ALGON, Edo State, Mr. Newsman Ugiagbe said the blatant act of violence in some parts of the state ahead of the September 21 governorship election is a clear violation of democratic principles and the rule of law.

According to Ugiagbe, “ALGON urgently calls upon the relevant security agencies, Including the Attorney General, Commissioner of Police Edo State, AIG Zone 5, and all concerned security authorized, to take immediate action in investigating and bringing the perpetrators of this heinous act to justice.

“It is disheartening to note that instead of engaging in a peaceful campaign, the All Progressives Congress (APC) appears to be resorting to violence and intimidation tactics, including unwarranted attacks on PDP members. Such unprovoked assaults must be addressed swiftly to prevent further harm and ensure a free and fair electoral process.

“ALGON stands firm in its commitment to promoting peace, democracy, and the rule of law in Edo State. We call on all stakeholders, political parties, and security agencies to work together to safeguard the rights and safety of all citizens during this crucial period.

“We urge the authorities to prioritize the investigation of this assault and hold the culprits accountable for their actions. Violence has no peace in our democratic society, and we must all strive to uphold the principles of justice and equality for the benefit of all, and we demand the immediate release of Hon. Collins Aigbogun, Chairman Esan West Local Government Council who ia the complainant but suddenly being victimised by the police from the Force Headquarters in Abuja.”

Confirming the arrest, the Edo State Commissioner of Police, CP Nemi Edwin-Iwo said the council chairman, Mr. Collins Aigbogun came on his own to honour police invitation.

According to him, “Basically, what happened is that he brutalized somebody because of an altercation between him and opposition party members. As regard to that, he was invited and the DPO in charge of Ekpoma Division was able to reach him and he brought him to us here at the State CID and we discovered before now that there is a petition against him. That was how he was taken on arrest for proper investigation. That was how he was moved to Abuja.”