Edo PDP Chieftain Alleges Threats to Life, Petitions IGP to Investigate Community Killings

By Ben Ogbemudia, Abuja

The Director-General of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the recent Edo State governorship election, Hon. Matthew Iduoriyekemwen, has formally petitioned the Inspector General of Police (IGP) over alleged threats to his life by Gaius Emokpae.
Iduoriyekemwen claimed that Emokpae is attempting to frame him in connection with a series of violent attacks in Amagba, a community in Edo State.

The petition, written on Iduoriyekemwen’s behalf by his attorney, Sir Edward Aibangbee, is titled “Serious Threats to Lives and Properties and Attempt to Frame Up False Allegation Against Hon. Matthew A. Iduoriyekemwen.”
It urged the police to investigate Emokpae’s alleged involvement in orchestrating kidnappings, killings, and arson in Amagba.
The document, released to journalists in Abuja, detailed allegations that Emokpae has been recruiting armed thugs to intimidate and harass community members, instigating unrest that was previously absent.

In the petition, Iduoriyekemwen claimed that Emokpae has accused him of leading an aggressive land dispute over a 715,000-hectare tract in Amagba, allegedly referring to him in a message as an “occultic” leader in the conflict.
Iduoriyekemwen asserted that the accusations are baseless and designed to harm his reputation.

“Before the arrival of Mr. Gaius Emokpae, Amagba was peaceful,” the petition stated. “Now, with his involvement, our client is in constant fear for his life and his family’s safety.”
It appealed to the IGP for an immediate investigation, emphasizing that Iduoriyekemwen has no involvement in any criminal activities.

The PDP chieftain expressed the hope that the police will intervene to protect lives and restore peace to the community.