The All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary election in Edo State was marred by violence as political thugs allegedly linked to a leading aspirant stormed the coalition center and disrupted the process. Despite heavy security presence, the hoodlums assaulted journalists, chased away electoral officers, and suspended the collation of results.
The disruption occurred at Lushville Hotels and Suites in Benin City, where results from eight out of the 18 local government areas were announced before the chaos unfolded. Senator Monday Okpebholo emerged victorious in six local government areas, while Honourable Dennis Idahosa secured victories in two.
The incident, which unfolded during a live television broadcast, saw the thugs overpowering police at the venue’s entrance. Journalists, including an NTA cameraman and FRCN reporter, were physically assaulted, and their equipment was damaged despite the presence of Edo State Commissioner of Police Funsho Adeboye and party officials.
The disruption dealt a severe blow to the integrity of the primary election, highlighting the prevalence of violence and intimidation in the political landscape of Edo State.
