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Governor Monday Okpebholo has accused elements within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) of escalating their internal crisis, following Tuesday’s violent disruption of a party gathering in Benin City.

In a personally signed statement, the governor condemned the attack on party leaders but suggested the unrest stemmed from disagreements within the ADC. He warned against importing thugs under the guise of political activity and vowed not to allow Edo State to become a theatre of conflict.

“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,” Okpebholo said.

He maintained that while his administration welcomes healthy opposition, it would not tolerate political manipulation or violence.

“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,” he added.

However, the ADC has rejected the governor’s position, describing the incident as a gun attack and assassination attempt targeting its leaders, including former Edo governor John Odigie-Oyegun, former Anambra governor Peter Obi, and former Labour Party governorship candidate Olumide Akpata.

In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party alleged a pattern of political intimidation and criticised what it termed inflammatory remarks by the governor. It insisted that elected officials have no constitutional authority to threaten opposition figures and disclosed plans to document the incident for possible legal and international action.

Reacting to the development, Anambra lawmaker Peter Ifeanyi Uzokwe described the alleged attack as an assault on democracy and demanded an immediate, transparent investigation to bring perpetrators to justice.

Youths from Agulu in Anambra State also condemned the incident, urging both the Edo State Government and federal authorities to ensure adequate protection of lives and property.

The internal crisis within the Edo ADC chapter further intensified as former Senate Chief Whip Rowland Owie called on the party’s national leadership to intervene. Owie accused Oyegun of sidelining statutory members and convening meetings without due process, allegations he denied were linked to violence.

Tensions reportedly flared during a disputed meeting at Oyegun’s Benin residence, where some stakeholders were allegedly denied entry before hoodlums attacked the residence and the party secretariat.

Barrister Kenneth Imasuangbon and the Conference of Registered Political Parties also condemned the violence, warning against political intolerance ahead of the 2027 elections.

Meanwhile, the Edo State Police Command confirmed it has launched an investigation into the attacks. Police spokesperson Eno Ikoedem said no arrests have been made but assured that updates would be provided as inquiries progress.

The unfolding crisis has heightened political tensions in Edo, with stakeholders calling for calm and accountability to safeguard democratic stability.