A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Kenneth Okonkwo, has described the recent attack on former presidential candidate Peter Obi in Edo State as an attempted assassination and what he termed “political genocide” against opposition figures.
Okonkwo made the allegation during an interview on ARISE TV, where he spoke on the circumstances surrounding the disruption of ADC political activities in Benin City.
According to him, his position was based on information obtained directly from former Edo State governor and ADC stalwart, John Odigie-Oyegun, whom he contacted for firsthand details of the incident.
He maintained that the attack was not accidental, but a coordinated attempt allegedly carried out by individuals linked to government authorities.
Okonkwo further alleged that Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, had earlier warned Obi against visiting the state without prior clearance, claiming such remarks amounted to a threat to opposition leaders.
Providing details of the incident, Okonkwo said political stakeholders had gathered to receive former President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Olumide Akpata, when suspected hoodlums reportedly stormed the venue.
He alleged that the attackers disrupted proceedings, forcing participants to flee before allegedly pursuing some party leaders to the residence of Odigie-Oyegun, where vehicles and property were vandalized.
Describing the situation, Okonkwo insisted the development represented a deliberate effort to intimidate opposition politicians and weaken multiparty democracy in Nigeria.
Meanwhile, the Edo State Police Command confirmed that unrest occurred during a political gathering at the ADC State Secretariat located on Ogbelaka Street, off Sapele Road, Benin City.
In a statement issued by Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, the command disclosed that suspected hoodlums infiltrated the venue shortly after the conclusion of the programme, creating panic that resulted in a stampede.
Police authorities stated that the attackers caused commotion and vandalized items at the venue before fleeing upon sighting security operatives deployed following a distress call.
The command clarified that no fatalities were recorded during the incident, although one woman reportedly sustained injuries in the ensuing stampede.
The incident has heightened political tension in Edo State, with opposition figures raising concerns over the safety of political actors amid increasing political activities ahead of future elections.
As of the time of filing this report, the Edo State Government had not issued an official response to the allegations made by the ADC chieftain.
