Edo State Governor Condemns Political Violence, Vows to Secure State
Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has strongly condemned a recent assault on members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing it as an unacceptable escalation of internal party strife. The governor, who also serves as the state’s Chief Security Officer, vowed to prevent Edo from becoming a venue for political violence.
In a statement issued Tuesday evening, Governor Okpebholo expressed sympathy for the ADC members affected by the incident. He alleged that certain individuals had exploited the state’s generally peaceful atmosphere to instigate violence. “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,” the statement read.
The governor asserted that the attack, whose precise motive remains unclear, appears intended to tarnish Edo State’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s most peaceful regions. He emphasized that such political blackmail would not weaken the resolve of Edo residents or their support for the state government. “Politics should be about performance, engagement, and earning public trust,” he stated, adding that his administration’s foundation is built on this principle.
While condemning the violence, Governor Okpebholo advised the ADC to consider that the conflict likely stems from internal disagreements rather than external accusations. He called on all political parties to resolve their internal disputes before holding public events to prevent further incidents. “Any attempt to incite violence under the pretext of political activity will be firmly addressed,” he warned.
Urging calm, the governor reaffirmed that Edo’s legacy of peace must be preserved. He called on security agencies, particularly the police, to enhance vigilance and monitor political gatherings to avert escalation, reiterating his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
The incident highlights the persistent risk of political violence in Nigeria’s electoral cycles. Governor Okpebholo’s statements position his administration as a stabilising force, demanding accountability from political actors and security agencies alike to maintain Edo’s relative stability amid national tensions. The police have yet to make public arrests or specify a motive for the assault on the ADC members.
