UPDATE: Tension rises as bandits abduct PDP chairman.

The chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo state, Mr Tony Aziegbemi, has reportedly been kidnapped in Benin, the state capital.

Aziegbemi was abducted at about 11 pm on Friday, just a few meters from his GRA residence in Benin City.

According to reports, the Edo PDP chairman, who did not have police protection, was trailed by abductors in two Toyota Corolla cars.

Recalling the incident, Aziegbemi’s driver stated that they left a night meeting in Government House around 11 pm. He noticed a car trailing them, so he decided to take another route, unaware that they were being followed by kidnappers. Moments later, the same cars appeared behind them at a speed breaker point and blocked their car. The gunmen then pointed a gun at them, ordered Aziegbemi to enter their car, and drove him away.

The State Police Command spokesman, SP Chidi Nwabuzor, confirmed the abduction and stated that the police have launched an operation to rescue Aziegbemi.

Meanwhile, the acting chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, Jarrett Tenebe, condemned the abduction, attributing it to the lack of strong security measures in the state.

Tenebe called on the security agencies to ensure Aziegbemi’s safe release and criticized the state government for inadequate security despite receiving significant security funds monthly.

The abduction of the Edo PDP chairman highlights the security challenges in the state and raises concerns about the safety of political figures.