Heavily armed political thugs linked to a political party attempted to disrupt yesterday’s sitting of the Edo State 2024 Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal at the High Court in Benin City, but their plan was stopped.
It was the second attempt in less than a week by thugs to interfere with the tribunal’s proceedings.
Tension was high at the tribunal on Wednesday when a lone thug, caught on video, fired shots into the air while shouting, “You must give us our mandate!”
The thug was seen loading and firing a pump-action rifle.
Emerging from an unregistered white Toyota Hilux, he caused panic as he continued firing into the air.
The gunshots could be heard within the tribunal premises, creating fear among those present. Onlookers were shocked, and the few policemen nearby seemed unable to act.
Also yesterday, the situation escalated when thugs entered the tribunal venue, surprising security personnel and lawyers.
The thugs took over areas usually manned by police officers, ignoring all efforts to make them leave. It took the combined effort of additional security forces and senior lawyers to remove the thugs from the court premises, restoring calm to the area.
