The Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu, had on Tuesday raised red alert that the leadership of a notable political party plots to buy votes during the September 19 governorship election in the state. Though, the deputy governor was not specific on the party, stakeholders in Edo State were of the view that he may be referring to the All Progressives Congress (APC), which is considered the major formidable party challenging the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State.
The deputy governor at a campaign rally in Ibillo, Akoko Edo Local Government Area, Edo State, said that some political leaders have recruited some lawmakers to buy off votes from the electorate before the election day. He admonished the people to resist the inducement of the vote buyers and use their PVCs well to ensure the election of a credible governor in the interest of the state.
Meanwhile, Deputy Governor Shaibu acquainted the people that the state government now makes payment of pension a priority.
Shaibu noted that pensioners in Edo State have seized to embark on street protests or wear black bands since their needs are being met by the government. He reiterated that the government has made pensioners welfare a priority.
Deputy Governor Shaibu had declared: “Our first citizens no longer take to the streets to protest the non-payment of their pension and entitlements
“They no longer wear black to protest. Gov. Godwin Obaseki has taken them off the streets.
“Some lawmakers have been mobilised to buy your votes, please use your Permanent Voters Card (PVC) to throw them out.”