Ahead of Saturday, 4th February 2023 presidential, national and state assembly rally in Kogi East senatorial district, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Elders Forum has raised alarm over plans by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to deploy thugs and hoodlums to discourage members of opposition party from turning out enmasse for the event.
The Elders Forum fingered Dekina Local Government Chairman, Prince Ishaq Okolo as the arrowhead of the planned violence which they said is capable of creating uneasy calm in the environment.
The Elders, in a statement signed by Alhaji Ibrahim Dansofo, however, warned on the negative consequences of making true the threat of violence and sporadic shootings by the hired thugs.
They cautioned the perpetrators and brought the planned action to the notice of the Attah Igala, HRM Matthew Opaluwa; Ejeh Dekina, Alhaji Usman Obaje; Ogohi Onu of Anyigba, Alhaji Abu Shaibu Okolo; Ayiduu of Abocho, HRH Ajofe Okai Jonah Idrisu and other traditional rulers of Kogi East.
The Elders warned that no individuals or groups has monopoly of violence, as any attempt towards actualising their threats will not be treated with levity.
The forum called the attention of the Dekina Local Government Area Commander, DPO, DSS and other security agencies about the palpable threats to lives and properties in Dekina Local Government, particularly in Anyigba town and asked the security agencies to alert the heads of security agencies in the state.
The Elders Forum said no amount of threats and thuggery will deter the PDP from going ahead with the Saturday’s zonal rally in the area.
