Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has suggested that the recent assault on members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) may be rooted in internal party disputes rather than external political hostility.
Reacting to the incident on Tuesday, the governor condemned the violence but cautioned against what he described as attempts to externalise what appears to be an intra-party conflict.
While expressing sympathy for affected ADC members, Okpebholo warned that political actors must resolve internal disagreements before organising public activities that could spiral into disorder.
“This conflict appears rooted in internal disagreements,” the governor said, advising the party to refrain from making external accusations.
The governor’s remarks come amid rising tensions within the ADC following recent political realignments in the state. Though the precise trigger of the violence remains unclear, Okpebholo said it was unfortunate that individuals allegedly exploited the state’s peaceful atmosphere to incite unrest.
He firmly rejected what he described as the “importation of thugs and miscreants” under the guise of political mobilisation, stressing that Edo would not be allowed to become a theatre for factional rivalries.
“As Chief Security Officer of the state, I will not allow Edo to be turned into a battleground for political competition,” he said.
Okpebholo also dismissed suggestions that the attack reflected a broader breakdown of political tolerance in the state, insisting that Edo’s reputation as a peaceful region would be preserved.
He emphasised that his administration welcomes constructive opposition and is not threatened by criticism or political contestation. However, he maintained that violence — especially when linked to unresolved party tensions — undermines democratic engagement.
Calling on security agencies to heighten surveillance around political gatherings, the governor urged all parties to prioritise internal reconciliation mechanisms to prevent further escalation.
“Edo remains a peaceful state, and that legacy must be protected,” he said, reiterating his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
The incident has spotlighted growing strains within opposition ranks in the state, with observers noting that unresolved factional divisions could further complicate the political landscape ahead of future contests.
