The Edo State Government has placed a ban on all political rallies, demonstrations or processions in the state for security reasons.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by Secretary to the Edo State Government, Barr. Osarodion Ogie.

Ogie said the state government made the decision because of ‘plans by some identified mischief-makers to organize an unauthorised political rally in Bénin City which is capable of leading to a breakdown of public peace and also  danger to the persons and property of Edo citizens.’

“In defiance of the clear and publicized instruction of the Inspector General of Police, calling off the proposed rally owing to security implications, these desperate persons are presently shopping around for alternative venues to carry out their incendiary activities,” he said.

The ban comes a day after the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Mohammed Adamu directed the immediate suspension of a proposed rally billed to be held on Friday, December 13 in Benin by a faction of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State backed by the national chairman of the party, Adams Oshiomhole. The rally was to welcome defected PDP stalwart, Pastor Ize-Iyamu and his supporters into the APC.