The Edo State Police Command has launched a probe following an attack on chieftains of the African Democratic Congress during an event in Benin City, the state capital.
On Tuesday, Yunusa Tanko, national coordinator of the Obidient movement, alleged that Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, alongside several ADC leaders, were attacked at the residence of former Edo governor John Odigie-Oyegun. Tanko shared the claim on X, stating that the incident occurred during the gathering.
Responding on Wednesday, Eno Ikodem, spokesperson for the Edo police, confirmed that suspected hoodlums disrupted a political gathering at around 2:55 pm. He explained that the commotion occurred after the event had concluded and most dignitaries had left.
“The hoodlums were said to have caused commotion, chased members away and threw the furniture at the venue upside down,” Ikodem said.
Patrol teams responded to distress calls, but the suspects had fled before officers arrived. Plastic chairs and canopies arranged outside the venue were reportedly vandalised.
“No casualties were recorded. However, during the ensuing stampede, one woman sustained injuries not related to gunfire. She was promptly treated at a nearby chemist and has since been discharged,” the spokesperson added.
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The police also investigated reports of gunshots around Odigie-Oyegun’s residence, discovering signs of property damage, including broken rear windscreens and other parts of vehicles parked outside the compound. However, Ikodem confirmed that no one was injured during the incident.
The Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, has ordered a “full-scale” investigation aimed at identifying, arresting, and prosecuting those responsible. The police reiterated their commitment to safeguarding political actors irrespective of party affiliation, noting that “acts of political violence will not be tolerated under any guise.”
Political party leaders have been invited to meet with the commissioner to discuss strategies for maintaining peaceful political activities across the state. Residents have been urged to remain calm and provide information that could assist ongoing investigations.
Meanwhile, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo attributed the clash to internal rifts within the ADC.