Suspected political thugs on Monday took control of the Oredo Local Government Area secretariat in Edo State, barring the Chairman, Tom Obaseki, from accessing his office.
The hoodlums, armed with weapons, positioned themselves strategically within the secretariat while chanting war songs, creating an atmosphere of tension.
The situation compelled Obaseki, who had reported for work earlier in the day, to retreat from the premises.
Speaking to journalists outside the council building, he said, “I came here to continue my work as elected chairman of Oredo Local Government. I met a whole lot of thugs who have already overtaken the council.
“This is a very disturbing trend. We are calling on the security agencies to arrest the situation. What is important is that we have a restraining order.”
Obaseki’s attempt to resume duties followed a ruling by the Edo State High Court on Friday, which nullified his suspension alongside 17 other council chairmen.
The suspensions were initially imposed by the Edo State House of Assembly based on a petition by Governor Monday Okpebholo, who accused the chairmen of insubordination and gross misconduct.
