‘Peter Obi Fuels Political Tension in Edo’ — Govt Responds After ADC Attack in Benin City

‘Peter Obi Fuels Political Tension in Edo’ — Govt Responds After ADC Attack in Benin City

The Edo State Government has strongly reacted to a recent attack on supporters of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Benin City, accusing former presidential candidate Peter Obi of fanning political instability in the state.

Speaking during a live interview on Channels Television, the Edo State Commissioner for Information, Kassim Afegbua, described Obi as a “problem in Edo politics”, claiming that his involvement in any political party often triggers internal conflicts and public disorder. “Peter Obi is a problem to the politics of Edo because any party he belongs to is crisis, crisis, crisis,” Afegbua said.

The statement came after gunmen reportedly disrupted an ADC-related gathering, including attacks near party offices and the residence of former APC national chairman John Odigie-Oyegun, causing minor injuries and property damage. The commissioner alleged that the event was not properly coordinated with security agencies, and suggested that elements within the ADC may have provoked unrest under the guise of political mobilization.

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Afegbua stressed that the state government remains committed to maintaining peace and denied any involvement in the attack. He confirmed that security agencies are investigating the incident, and anyone found culpable would face prosecution. The commissioner also warned that Edo would not become a theatre for political confrontation ahead of upcoming elections.

The attack has been widely condemned. ADC supporters, known as Obidients, accused the Edo government of intimidation and political bias, insisting that the gathering was peaceful before being disrupted by unidentified assailants. Civil society groups and opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, also condemned the violence, calling for transparent investigations and accountability.

Governor Monday Okpebholo reiterated the state’s commitment to peace and security, attributing the incident to internal party disputes within the ADC rather than a politically targeted attack. He urged all political actors to exercise restraint and avoid exploiting local tensions for partisan advantage.

Observers note that the incident highlights rising political tensions in Edo State as the 2027 elections approach. Analysts warn that unchecked hostility and violent clashes could undermine democratic engagement, threaten public safety, and deepen mistrust between political parties and the electorate.

‘Peter Obi Fuels Political Tension in Edo’ — Govt Responds After ADC Attack in Benin City