Amid mounting concerns over the upcoming Edo State governorship election, the hashtag #EdoElectionNoBeWar has gained massive traction on social media, as citizens express alarm over reports that the All Progressives Congress (APC) may be arming thugs to disrupt the electoral process.

The viral hashtag emerged following allegations that members of the APC, led by former deputy governor, Philip Shaibu are stockpiling weapons and preparing to deploy violent enforcers ahead of the election scheduled for September 21, 2024.

The reports have caused widespread anxiety in the state, with many fearing the possibility of violence and voter intimidation.

Several social media users are calling for peace and urging all political actors to avoid plunging the state into chaos.

X (formerly Twitter), in particular, has seen an outpouring of messages condemning any attempt to disrupt the democratic process through violence.

"Let us vote in peace! Thugs have no place in our democracy. #EdoElectionNoBeWar," one concerned Edo resident tweeted.

Another user posted, "Elections should be peaceful, not a battlefield. The people of Edo deserve better. #EdoElectionNoBeWar."

The reports of thugs being armed come on the heels of violent clashes in Benin City, which resulted in the death of a police inspector when Shaibu stormed the state recently.

The incidents have heightened tensions in the state, with voters expressing concerns about their safety on election day.

Political observers have also joined the online conversation, warning that the use of thuggery could undermine the legitimacy of the electoral process.

Dr. Anthony Dimka, a security expert, said, "The introduction of armed thugs into the electoral process can elevate tension to dangerous levels. Security agencies must act swiftly to ensure a peaceful election."

Meanwhile, civil society groups and community leaders are urging the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to step up efforts to ensure that the election is conducted in a free, fair, and peaceful manner.

They are also calling on all political parties to denounce violence and allow the electorate to cast their votes without fear.

The APC has yet to issue an official response to the allegations of arming thugs.

As the hashtag #EdoElectionNoBeWar continues to trend, it is evident that Edo citizens and Nigerians nationwide are united in their call for a violence-free election, where the will of the people, not armed thugs, determines the outcome.

nams77:
APC has destroyed the way we conduct elections in this country. They have heightened agberoism to a frightening dimension. Unleashing mayhem and thuggery in unprecedented manner. They have refused to play fair and yet dish out abysmal performance.
Nigeria will never remain the same

Blizzy9ja:
Until we have a revolution these crop of criminal politician are not ready to conduct free and fair elections

Pharaoh4rin:
That APC gubernatorial candidate is a wrong number. He's not worthy of a Councillor talk less of a chairman. He's a slap on the position of a governor. But then, what do I know? Hungry Edoans would collect urgent 2k and die for that useless, demonic party called apc.

post=132068805:
May the best candidate win and become the Governor.

God bless Edo State.

God bless Nigeria 🇳🇬.


Oba ghato kpere

We Rise ✔️

nams77:
APC has destroyed the way we conduct elections in this country. They have heightened agberoism to a frightening dimension. Unleashing mayhem and thuggery in unprecedented manner. They have refused to play fair and yet dish out abysmal performance.
Nigeria will never remain the same

Prescience:
Election is not do or die pls. Dont kill yourself for any politician

Prescience:
Election is not do or die pls. Dont kill yourself for any politician

Pharaoh4rin:
That APC gubernatorial candidate is a wrong number. He's not worthy of a Councillor talk less of a chairman. He's a slap on the position of a governor. But then, what do I know? Hungry Edoans would collect urgent 2k and die for that useless, demonic party called apc.

Zooposki:
Abeg o, Edo no be Lagos.

Omenlon:
Edo can never be Lagos, because Lagos is miles ahead of Edo in all ramifications. Let Lagos be developing and Edo be stagnant, it their cup of tea.

Meti99:
Ona no do "Edo no be Lagos'' this time around.
Yeye people

post=132068805:
May the best candidate win and become the Governor.

God bless Edo State.

God bless Nigeria 🇳🇬.


Oba ghato kpere

We Rise ✔️