Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has accused members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) of escalating their internal crisis, following Tuesday’s attack on party leaders in Benin City.
In a personally signed statement, the governor denounced the violence, linking it to unresolved disagreements within the party. He cautioned against bringing political thugs into the state and reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to preserve peace and stability.
“Even though the precise motive behind this attack may not yet be 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. This is what we are known for, and we will remain committed to that path.
“As a leading political force in the state, we welcome healthy opposition and will not be intimidated by blackmail or self-inflicted attacks. No amount of political manipulation will sway Edo people from supporting a government they trust.
“All parties must resolve their internal disputes before organising events in the state, as any attempt to foment crisis under the guise of politics will not be tolerated,” the governor said.
The ADC, however, described the incident as a gun attack and an assassination attempt targeting senior figures, including former Edo governor John Odigie-Oyegun, ex-Anambra governor Peter Obi, and former Labour Party governorship candidate Olumide Akpata.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party alleged a sustained pattern of political intimidation and dismissed claims linking it to unrest in the state. It criticised what it termed inflammatory comments reportedly made by the governor and maintained that elected officials lack constitutional authority to threaten opposition figures. The party added that it was compiling evidence and would explore legal and international channels to seek redress.
Reacting to the development, Anambra lawmaker Peter Ifeanyi Uzokwe warned that no harm must come to Obi, describing the attack as a threat to democratic values. He called for a prompt, transparent and independent probe, urging security agencies to identify and prosecute those responsible.
Likewise, youths from Agulu in Anambra State condemned the alleged assassination attempt and appealed to the Edo State Government to conduct a comprehensive investigation to uncover those behind the incident. They also urged federal authorities and security agencies to enhance the protection of lives and property.
Meanwhile, the internal dispute within the Edo ADC intensified as former Senate Chief Whip, Rowland Owie, called on the party’s national leadership to step into the state chapter’s affairs. He accused Oyegun of excluding statutory members and convening meetings without following due procedure.
Tensions reportedly peaked during a contentious meeting at Oyegun’s Benin residence, where some stakeholders were allegedly barred from entry. The situation later turned violent, with hoodlums said to have attacked both the residence and the party secretariat. Owie denied any involvement, maintaining that he had never engaged in violent political conduct.
Barrister Kenneth Imasuangbon and the Conference of Registered Political Parties also condemned the violence, cautioning against political intolerance as the 2027 elections draw closer.
The Edo State Police Command confirmed it has launched an investigation into the attacks on the ADC secretariat and Oyegun’s residence. Police spokesperson Eno Ikoedem said no arrests had been made so far but assured that updates would be provided as the investigation progresses.
