The arrest of Workers’ Party factional chairman Julius Abure and four others in Benin City, Nigeria, has recently made headlines. This event, which occurred following a petition filed by an unnamed complainant, drew attention to serious charges including attempted murder, conspiracy to cause grievous bodily harm and other related offenses .
NPF Zone 5 Force spokesperson Tijani Momoh confirmed the arrest and said Julius Abure was also in possession of a firearm, namely a pistol and three live rounds. Investigations are underway to establish the facts.
The arrest, captured in a broadcast video, sparked allegations that police mistreated the politician. However, Momoh denied the allegations, explaining that the request for Abure to sit on the ground was due to interference from people around him during the arrest operation.
It is also notable that it was party members, including the party’s former youth leader, Eragbe Anselm Aphimia who filed the petition leading to the arrest.
This event marks a turning point in the local political landscape and raises questions about public safety and the integrity of political leaders. The case continues to attract public interest, and future developments will be closely monitored.