Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has condemned the violent attack on members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) during a gathering that also placed former presidential candidate Peter Obi in harm’s way, describing the incident as an internal party crisis that was taken too far.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Dr Patrick Ebojele, Governor Okpebholo expressed sympathy for the affected party members.
He noted that it was unfortunate that certain elements allegedly exploited the state’s peaceful atmosphere to perpetrate violence.
The Governor specifically condemned the alleged importation of thugs and miscreants from outside the state under the guise of political activity, warning that such actions would not be tolerated going forward.
“As the Chief Security Officer of this state, I will not stand by and allow Edo to be turned into a theatre of conflict in the name of political rivalry,” the Governor stated.
He emphasised that politics should be centred on performance, engagement with the people, and the continuous effort to earn their trust and confidence.
He further asserted that no amount of political blackmail would sway the people of Edo from supporting a government they hold dear.
Reaffirming the position of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a leading political force in the state, the Governor said his party welcomes healthy opposition and will not be intimidated by what he described as blackmail or self-inflicted attacks.
While sympathising with members of the ADC, Governor Okpebholo advised the party to refrain from directing accusations outside its fold, suggesting that the matter appeared to stem from internal disagreements.
He warned members of the opposition seeking to cause unrest, urging all political parties in the state to resolve their internal disputes before organising public events.
The Governor called on the police and other security agencies to remain vigilant and closely monitor political gatherings that could potentially escalate into violence.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state.
Background: Gunmen Attack Gathering, Peter Obi and Leaders Escape Unhurt
The Governor’s reaction follows a violent incident on Tuesday in which Mr Peter Obi and several ADC chieftains narrowly escaped an assassination attempt during a meeting in Benin City.
The gathering took place at the residence of Chief John Odigie Oyegun, a former governor of Edo State and the National Leader of the ADC. Mr Obi was in the state to formally receive Olumide Akpata, the Labour Party’s governorship candidate in the 2024 Edo State election, along with his supporters, into the ADC.
The meeting was progressing peacefully when gunshots suddenly rang out, sending participants scrambling for safety. Sporadic gunfire erupted within the premises, damaging vehicles parked outside. Bullet holes were later seen on the gate and perimeter fence of the residence.
Earlier in the day, there was also a reported invasion at the ADC State Secretariat on Ogbelaka Road, where party leaders had gathered for the reception ceremony for Mr Akpata. Some individuals were said to have sustained injuries during that disturbance.
In his immediate reaction on Tuesday, Mr Peter Obi had urged party supporters to remain calm and called on security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation.
“This act is unacceptable. We are not in a banana republic where anything goes. Be rest assured that this behavior by enemies of progress will not deter the ADC from taking over the government come 2027,” he said.
As of the time of this report, security agencies, including the police, have yet to issue an official statement on the incident.
