Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole
By Chuks Okocha
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has said the police investigation and subsequent report linking the ownership of the lorry that crashed into the convoy of the Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole, on April 28, 2012, killing three journalists to an Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) stalwart in the state, was a clear vindication of the position of the party that desperation is driving the ACN for electoral victory.
The party further said, “We recall that Governor Oshiomhole has blamed the PDP for this tragic incident. We also recall that we stated unambiguously that the PDP does not need the blood of innocent Nigerians to win elections anywhere in Nigeria much less in Edo State.
“We categorically urged the security agencies to look beyond the crocodile tears and the loud alarm of lion –in- the -neighbourhood raised by the ACN. We are today vindicated”, PDP said.
In a statement by the National Publicity Secretary of the party, Olisa Metuh, the PDP said the incident connects directly to the orgy of violence which the machinery of the ACN-controlled Edo State government has been unleashing on the members of the PDP.
PDP explained, “Violence does not win elections. Superior ideas and track record of performance do. We therefore urge our members to remain peaceful and convince the Edo electorates with superior ideas in their campaign.”
The statement noted that the strength of the PDP in the state has continued grow with the approach of the governorship election as thousands of ACN members decamp to the party.
“We are sure of victory in the election. All that the PDP is asking for is free and fair election. We are asking for the cessation of intimidation and regime of violence by the ACN, so that the people will vote their choice without inhibition.”
The PDP further commended its members and supporters in Edo State for a successful grand finale of its gubernatorial campaign which was attended by President Goodluck Jonathan.
“The unprecedented turnout at the campaign rally is a firm comment on the strength of our great party in the state. We are not in doubt that this is a compelling sign of a sure electoral victory in the coming election,” the party explained.