Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has condemned the recent attack on members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing it as an internal party crisis that escalated excessively.
In a statement on Tuesday night, Okpebholo expressed sympathy for the affected members and decried the exploitation of Edo State’s peaceful environment to perpetrate violence.
“As peace-loving people, the importation of thugs and miscreants from outside the state under the guise of party politics remains totally condemned and will not be tolerated,” he said.
The governor emphasised that, as the chief security officer of the state, he would not allow Edo to become a theatre of conflict in the name of political rivalry. “Even though the precise motive behind this attack may not yet be fully known, I strongly believe that the ultimate objective is to discredit Edo State and undermine its reputation as one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria,” he added.
Okpebholo assured that no political blackmail would sway residents from supporting their government and stressed that politics should centre on performance, public engagement, and earning the trust of citizens. “This is what we are known for, and we will remain committed to that path,” he said.
He also warned that violence orchestrated for political advantage reflects a lack of meaningful value for the electorate. While his party welcomes healthy opposition, Okpebholo urged parties to resolve internal disputes before holding public events, warning that any attempt to incite unrest under the guise of political activity would be firmly addressed. He further called on the police and security agencies to monitor political gatherings closely to prevent escalation.
Obi, ADC Condemn Attack
The attack reportedly involved gunmen suspected to be political thugs targeting ADC chieftains at the residence of former APC National Chairman and ADC State Chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, in Benin City. The incident occurred shortly after party members returned from the ADC secretariat, where they had formally welcomed former Labour Party governorship candidate Olumide Akpata into the party.
Condemning the attack, former presidential candidate and ADC chieftain Peter Obi said, “We will make a formal complaint, and I assure you that this cannot continue. We cannot have terrorism terrorising citizens, whether from insurgents or officials in government. It is unacceptable.”
The ADC leadership also affirmed its resolve, with spokesman Bolaji Abdullahi stating, “Let it be clearly understood: violence and intimidation are the weapons of those who fear the will of the people. Such actions stain our democracy and must be condemned by all who believe in freedom.”
