Tight security in Benin as Buhari bids Oshiomhole farewell

Security has been beefed up in and around Benin, capital of Edo state, ahead of President Muhammadu Buhari’s two-day official visit to the state.

The president, who commenced the visit on Monday, is expected to inaugurate a number of projects executed by Adams Oshiomhole, who will be vacating office by November 12.

John Odigie, national chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC) led other dignitaries to receive Buhari at the Benin Airport.

Rotimi Amaechi, minister of transport; Chibudum Nwuche, APC south-south leader; Pius Odubu, outgoing Edo deputy governor; service commanders were also at the airport.

Officers of police, army, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), have taken up strategic positions in the areas the president is expected to pass through and the project sites in the capital city.

There is heavy presence of security personnel at the airport and environs, golf course road and government house area.

Heavy security is also  noticed in adjoining streets close to the airport, such as Ihama, Boundary and Adesuwa roads, while security patrol vehicles, manned by the police and army, were seen patrolling airport road.

The presidential visit created traffic challenges in the city on Monday morning, especially Airport road and Siloko road.

Part of activities lined up for the visit, is the planned courtesy call by the president to the new Benin monarch, Oba Ewuare II, after which he is expected to inaugurate the new central hospital, Siloko road and 2nd East Circular road among others.

On Tuesday, Buhari is expected to inaugurate some projects, including the new Edo University, Iyamoh, in Edo North and Central Senatorial Districts of the state.

Oshiomhole, who was first inaugurated on November 12, 2008 and won his second term in 2012, will hand over to the governor-elect, Mr Godwin Obaseki, on Saturday.