The Peoples Democratic Party on Monday called for President Bola Tinubu’s intervention to recover its Edo State secretariat from the ruling All Progressives Congress in the state.
The PDP also vowed to persist in its efforts to reclaim the controversial property located at 59 Airport Road, Benin City, Edo State.
In an exclusive interview with The PUNCH, the PDP National Deputy Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, criticised the ruling party’s actions, describing them as an assault on democracy.
The PUNCH had reported last Thursday that the APC invaded and took control of the building, which originally served as its secretariat.
The property had been occupied by the PDP since Governor Godwin Obaseki defected to the party in 2020 after being disqualified from running for governor under the APC.
Osadolor accused the APC of repeatedly flouting the law.
He said, “This country once upheld the rule of law and established protocols. But now, we’re witnessing abnormalities that should never happen. Since the President himself has shown disregard for the laws of the land, it is unsurprising that his party is following suit.
“The truth is, these actions undermine our democracy. Those responsible may think they are displaying power, but the people of this country are tired. If pushed too far, a single spark could ignite significant unrest.
“Even with court judgments restraining them and ordering a return to the status quo, the Edo governor, backed by his allies, has defied these rulings. Now, we’re in court and have reported our case to all security agencies. While these agencies claim to have the situation under control, it is clear that the APC is bent on subverting democracy.
“Our message to Mr. President, as the commander-in-chief, is to bring this situation to his attention. We believe he is aware of what is happening in Edo State and across the country. He must rein in his party.
“My message to PDP members in Edo is to remain calm and avoid actions that could escalate the situation. I firmly believe that, like the night, this too shall pass. Life will go on.”
Efforts to obtain a response from the APC leadership in Abuja were unsuccessful.
The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, could not be reached by phone, and the National Vice Chairman (South-East), Dr. Ijeoma Arodiogbu, declined to comment, stating he had not been following the developments.