The Edo State Government has distanced itself from the attack on the state secretariat of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the residence of the party’s national leader, John Odigie-Oyegun, describing the incident as an internal crisis that spiralled out of control.
The attack, which occurred in Benin City, has drawn widespread criticism and condemnation from political stakeholders and residents.
In a personally signed statement on Wednesday, Governor Monday Okpebholo condemned the violence and expressed sympathy with members of the ADC affected by the incident. However, he firmly rejected allegations linking his administration to the unrest.
According to the governor, it was unfortunate that some individuals allegedly took advantage of Edo’s peaceful environment to foment trouble.
“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,” he stated.
Okpebholo stressed that, as the Chief Security Officer of the state, he would not allow Edo to become a battleground for political rivalry or conflict.
“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.
The governor also maintained that political blackmail would not deter Edo residents from supporting a government they believe in. He emphasized that politics should revolve around performance, meaningful engagement, and earning the trust of the people not violence.
He warned that any politician who resorts to orchestrating unrest for political gain demonstrates a lack of credible value to offer voters.
While sympathizing with the ADC over the attack, Okpebholo advised the party to look inward rather than direct accusations at external actors, suggesting that the root of the crisis lay within its internal disagreements.
He appealed to residents to remain calm and law-abiding, while urging security agencies to intensify surveillance and closely monitor political gatherings to prevent further escalation.
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