Governor Godwin Obaseki’s administration is intensifying its efforts to coerce local government workers and civil servants into voting for the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the upcoming Edo State gubernatorial election.
In a letter dated September 10, 2024, with Ref No. S. 103/42, the Local Government Service Commission directed Chairmen of Local Government Councils and NULGE Branch Chairmen to “sensitize” workers to vote for PDP. The letter, signed by Mr. O.A. Uwubanmwen, reads:
“I am directed to refer to the above subject and to request for the sensitization of all Local Government workers (including Primary Health Care Staff) on the need for them to go out en-mass to exercise their franchise come September 21st, 2024.”
The letter further instructs:
“Suffice to say that this sensitization should be done simultaneously in all Local Government on Friday 13TH September, 2024 at the Local Government at (link unavailable) Above is for your information and Compliance as the Chairmen are to facilitate the meeting personally and enjoin the staff for mass voting for PDP on the said date.”
This move follows reports that civil servants who fail to vote for PDP face termination under the outgoing administration. Previously, the government summoned staff on Salary Grade Level 09/2 and above to a meeting with the governor.
A circular letter dated September 16, 2024, signed by the Permanent Secretary, Human Resources, at the Office of Head of Service, reads:
“I am directed to inform you that His Excellency, Mr. Godwin Nogheghase Obaseki, Governor of Edo State, will be meeting with Staff on Salary Grade Level 09/2 and above in Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) as detailed below:
– Date: Tuesday, 17th September, 2024
– Time: 8:00 AM
– Venue: Sir Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub Airport Road, Benin City.”
The letter emphasizes:
“Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Extra-Ministerial Departments and Agencies are required to attend the meeting with their eligible staff… Ensure that the contents of this Circular are communicated to all concerned Officers for their information and strict compliance.”
To ensure attendance, the circular states:
“ECTS Buses will be available at the following locations to transport staff to the Sir Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub, Airport Road, Benin City, tomorrow Tuesday 17th September, 2024 between 7.00 AM and 7:30 AM.”
Critics argue this is a blatant attempt to intimidate workers into supporting PDP, undermining democratic principles.
