The African Democratic Congress has condemned what it described as a violent attack and attempted assassination in Edo State involving some of its prominent figures, accusing the ruling All Progressives Congress of orchestrating a campaign of intimidation against opposition leaders.
Media reports indicated that former presidential candidate Peter Obi, former National Chairman of the APC John Odigie-Oyegun, and other party chieftains were targeted by suspected political thugs in Benin, the Edo State capital.
The attackers were said to have stormed the party’s secretariat, vandalising property and injuring members before proceeding to the Benin GRA residence of Oyegun, where gunshots were reportedly fired and several vehicles damaged.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC linked the incident to what it termed a growing pattern of hostility towards opposition parties. The party further accused Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, of making remarks it described as inflammatory and capable of escalating tensions.
According to the statement, the attack was not an isolated episode but part of a broader climate of political intimidation. The party expressed concern over earlier comments allegedly attributed to the governor regarding the safety of opposition figures visiting the state, as well as claims accusing the ADC of sponsoring criminal activity.
The ADC maintained that no elected official has the constitutional authority to threaten or endanger political opponents, stressing that Nigeria operates under a democratic framework that guarantees freedom of speech and association.
It warned that any harm inflicted on its leaders or members amid what it called escalating hostility would be the responsibility of those fostering division. The party also disclosed plans to document reported incidents and forward them to diplomatic missions and the ECOWAS Court of Human Rights.
Reaffirming its resolve, the ADC said it would pursue lawful measures to safeguard its members and facilities nationwide, urging supporters to remain vigilant while continuing their political activities peacefully.
