Governor Monday Okpebholo has denounced the recent attack on members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Edo State, describing the incident as an internal party dispute that spiralled beyond control.
Former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, and some chieftains of the ADC were on Tuesday allegedly attacked by suspected thugs in Edo State.
Obi’s former campaign spokesman and National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, Dr Yunusa Tanko, described the attack as an “assassination attempt”.
In a statement signed by Governor Okpebholo’s chief press secretary, Patrick Akhere Ebojele, and issued on Tuesday, February 24, the governor expressed sympathy for those affected and stated that it was regrettable that individuals allegedly took advantage of Edo’s calm environment to unleash 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 going forward,” the governor said.
He spoke firmly about his responsibility as the state’s Chief Security Officer, insisting he would not allow Edo to slide into chaos 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 stated.
Okpebholo maintained that no political pressure or blackmail would shake the resolve of Edo people in supporting a government they believe in. According to him, politics must revolve around performance, engagement and earning the trust of the electorate.
“This is what we are known for, and we will remain committed to that path,” the governor stressed.
Okpebholo argued that when violence is allegedly orchestrated for political gain, it signals a lack of substance. While reiterating that his party welcomed credible opposition, he cautioned against what he termed self-inflicted attacks.
He advised the ADC to look inward rather than direct accusations elsewhere, suggesting that the incident appeared rooted in internal disagreements. He also appealed to residents to remain calm and protect Edo’s longstanding reputation for peace.
“Edo remains a peaceful state, and no one can take that away from us,” he stressed.
Okpebholo further urged security agencies to step up surveillance around political gatherings and warned that any attempt to foment unrest under the cover of party activities would be firmly resisted.
