Okpebholo Blames Rift Among ADC Members For Attack On Obi, Others

Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has issued a firm condemnation of the recent assault on members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), characterizing the incident as an escalation of internal party conflict that has gone excessively far.

In a personal statement released on Tuesday evening, the governor expressed sympathy for the affected party members.

He noted that it was regrettable that certain individuals allegedly exploited Edo State’s peaceful environment to incite violence.

The statement emphasized, “As peace-loving citizens, we categorically condemn and will not tolerate the importation of thugs and miscreants from outside the state under the guise of political activity.”

He affirmed that, as the state’s Chief Security Officer, he would prevent Edo from becoming a battleground for political rivalry.

“While the precise motive behind this attack remains unclear, I strongly believe its primary aim is to discredit Edo State and undermine its reputation as one of Nigeria’s most peaceful regions,” he stated.

Furthermore, the governor underscored that no political blackmail would weaken the support of Edo residents for their government.

He emphasized that politics should focus on performance, engagement with the populace, and ongoing efforts to earn public trust.

“This is the foundation of our reputation, and we are committed to maintaining it,” he added.

He condemned the use of violence by politicians or individuals seeking electoral advantage, asserting that such actions demonstrate a lack of integrity and respect for the electorate.

The governor affirmed that his party welcomes constructive opposition and would not be intimidated by blackmail or self-inflicted attacks.

While expressing sympathy to ADC members and condemning the incident, he advised the party to avoid external accusations, suggesting that the conflict appears rooted in internal disagreements.

He also called on residents of Edo State to remain calm and uphold peace, emphasizing that the incident should not tarnish the state’s image. “Edo remains a peaceful state, and that legacy must be preserved,” he affirmed.

In a warning to opposition groups, he stated that all political parties should resolve internal disputes before organizing public events.

“Any attempt to incite violence under the pretext of political activity would be firmly addressed,” he warned.

Malam Bolaji Abdullahi, spokesman of the ADC, had linked the attack to an alleged threat of the governor who asked Obi not to visit Edo without security clearance.

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, on Friday warned Peter Obi against entering the state without security clearance.

Last year, Obi had visited Benin and donated N15m million to St Philomena Hospital School of Nursing Sciences for the completion of projects in the school.

But the governor condemned Obi’s visit to the state insisting that his visit coincided with the resurgence of violence in the state.

“That man who says he has no ‘shishi’ came and dropped ₦15 million. Where did he get it from? After he left, three people were killed. For this reason, Obi must not come to Edo without security clearance. His visit coincided with a resurgence of violence in the state and this will not be tolerated,” the governor had stated.