Edo politicians abandon homes for hotels

With barely few days to the April general elections, politicians and candidates seeking various political offices have resorted to staying in hotels over fear for their lives.

Investigation by the News Agency of Nigeria revealed that major hotels in Auchi, Etsako Local Government area of Edo State have become abode for these politicians.

The NAN learnt that while some of the politicians felt their homes were no longer safe for them, others believed staying in hotels could beat alleged mass arrest by opposition.

It was further gathered that the politicians mostly sneak into the hotel at night and moved to their rooms.

A hotel attendant who identified himself as Tom, said most of the politicians came to the hotel alone.

“They just come in and go straight to their rooms; some even disguised and without security details.

“We understood from few that come in with their security that they are only being cautious of their safety considering the happening in other cities of Nigeria,” he stated.

A politician, Pastor George Okosun, dismissed the claim that politicians seek refuge in hotels for safety.

He said what they sought after was a place where they could have maximum concentration and avoid unnecessary demand being made by some supporters.

Okosun, who is a Peoples Democratic Party stalwart, also denied that the party was trying to keep the Action Congress of Nigeria candidates for the election out of circulation.

“I am not saying some of the politicians have not had threat to their lives. What I mean is that they are running away from the frivolous demands being made daily by party supporters on their candidates,” he said.