The Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, has condemned the recent attack on members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing the incident as an internal party crisis that escalated beyond acceptable limits.
In a statement personally issued on Tuesday night, Governor Okpebholo expressed sympathy with the affected ADC members, noting that it was regrettable that certain individuals allegedly took advantage of the state’s peaceful environment to perpetrate violence.
“As peace-loving people, the importation of thugs and miscreants from outside the state under the guise of party politics remains totally condemned and will not be tolerated going forward,” the governor stated.
He stressed that, as Chief Security Officer of the state, he would not allow Edo to become a theatre of conflict in the name of political rivalry.
Although the exact motive behind the attack has yet to be fully established, the governor said he believed the ultimate aim was to tarnish the state’s reputation as one of the most peaceful in the country.
“I strongly believe that the objective is to discredit Edo State and undermine its standing as a peaceful state,” he said.
Governor Okpebholo maintained that no form of political blackmail would deter Edo people from supporting a government they cherish. He emphasized that politics should focus on performance, meaningful engagement, and sustained efforts to earn public trust.
“This is what we are known for, and we will remain committed to that path,” he added.
The governor argued that resorting to violence for political gain reflects a lack of substantive value to offer the electorate. As a leading political force in the state, he said his party welcomes healthy opposition and would not be intimidated by what he described as blackmail or self-inflicted crises.
While sympathizing with the ADC and condemning the attack, Governor Okpebholo advised the party to avoid directing accusations outside its ranks, suggesting that the incident appeared rooted in internal disagreements.
He appealed to residents of Edo State to remain calm and continue to uphold peace, urging them not to allow the development to create a negative perception of the state.
“Edo remains a peaceful state, and no one can take that away from us,” he affirmed.
The governor also warned opposition elements allegedly seeking to incite unrest, stating that all political parties must resolve internal disputes before organizing events in the state. He made clear that any attempt to foment crisis under the guise of political activities would not be tolerated.
Governor Okpebholo further called on the police and other security agencies to remain vigilant and closely monitor political gatherings that could escalate into violence, reiterating his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property across Edo State.
