The Edo State Police Command has confirmed an attack by “some hoodlums” on the African Democratic Congress (ADC) State Secretariat in Benin City. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, also involved reported unrest at the residence of former Edo State Governor and ADC State Chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun.
Police stated that the disturbances at the ADC secretariat on Ogbelaka Street, off Sapele Road, led to a stampede shortly after the programme concluded, even after most dignitaries had left. Hoodlums reportedly caused commotion, chased members away, and overturned furniture. Plastic chairs and canopies outside the secretariat were vandalised.
“No casualties were recorded, though one woman sustained minor injuries during the stampede and has since been discharged,” said Police Public Relations Officer, Eno Ikoedem. Security has been reinforced around the secretariat to prevent further unrest.
At about 3:48 pm, police received a distress call alleging gunshots at Chief Odigie-Oyegun’s residence. Officers found signs of malicious damage, including two rear windscreens and vehicle body parts destroyed, but no casualties were reported.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, has ordered a full-scale investigation to identify and prosecute the perpetrators.
The attack reportedly occurred shortly after ADC chieftains welcomed former Labour Party governorship candidate Olumide Akpata into the party. Condemning the attack, former LP presidential candidate Peter Obi stated, “We will make a formal complaint, and I assure you that this cannot continue. We cannot have terrorism terrorizing citizens, whether from insurgents or officials in government.”
Governor Monday Okpebholo also condemned the incident, describing it as an attempt to discredit Edo State and undermine its reputation as one of Nigeria’s most peaceful states.
