A violent incident has occurred in Edo State, Nigeria, as gunmen attacked the convoy of the African Democratic Congress's (ADC) senatorial candidate, Hon. Herberta Okonofua, and other party leaders. The attack took place in the Igueben Local Government Area, with reports suggesting that the attackers were loyalists of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The convoy was targeted while the ADC leaders were engaging in political activities in the area.
According to the ADC, one of its supporters, Jerry Oliha, sustained gunshot wounds during the attack and was rushed to the Irrua Specialist Hospital for treatment. The party alleged that this was the third attack on their entourage within the local government, with previous incidents occurring in Wards 4 and 5. The ADC has condemned the attack, describing it as part of a wider pattern of violence against opposition members and facilities in the state.
The ADC State Publicity Secretary, Chris Ojeikere, stated that the attack was led by the Chairman of Igueben Local Government Council, Hon. Endurance Azemegbe. However, Azemegbe has denied any involvement in the attack, claiming he was not in Igueben at the time of the incident and was only aware of it through media reports. Azemegbe has promised to investigate the matter.
The incident has raised concerns over growing political tension in Edo State, particularly in light of recent threats made by the APC State Chairman, Jarrett Tenebe. Tenebe had reportedly threatened to deploy AK-47s against perceived opponents in the party's drive to deliver 2.5 million votes to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The ADC has described the attack as part of a broader pattern of violence against opposition members.
The Edo State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, has stated that the police command is not yet aware of the incident, but will investigate once a formal report is made. The ADC has promised to release a comprehensive report on the incident shortly.
The attack on the ADC convoy has sparked fears of escalating violence in Edo State ahead of the 2027 political contest. The incident has also highlighted the need for increased security measures to protect politicians and their supporters during election campaigns.
The situation remains tense in Edo State, with both the ADC and APC trading accusations over the incident. An investigation into the attack is expected to be conducted by the police and the local government authorities.
Key points
- The attack on the ADC convoy in Edo State has raised concerns over growing political tension and violence ahead of the 2027 elections.
- The ADC has accused the APC and the Igueben Local Government Chairman of being involved in the attack.
- The incident has sparked fears of escalating violence in Edo State and highlighted the need for increased security measures to protect politicians and their supporters.
