A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress in Edo State, Ken Imasuagbon, has called on President Bola Tinubu to urgently rein in members of the All Progressives Congress in the state following a reported attack on opposition figures in Benin.
Imasuagbon made the appeal on Wednesday while reacting to the alleged attack on the ADC secretariat and the residence of a former governor of the state, John Odigie-Oyegun, in Benin City. The incident reportedly occurred during a meeting attended by the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, and other political stakeholders.
Describing the development as a dangerous sign for democracy, Imasuagbon warned that the President’s failure to check what he termed the excesses of APC members in Edo State could plunge the state into chaos.
“It is deeply troubling that Edo State is witnessing this emerging wave of political intolerance,” he said. “Democracy thrives on dialogue, dissent, and healthy competition of ideas, not intimidation and violence.”
He urged security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into the reported attacks and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice, regardless of their political affiliation.
Imasuagbon stressed that political rivalry should not degenerate into hostility, noting that Edo State had long been known for its vibrant but peaceful political engagement. He called on all parties to exercise restraint and prioritise the peace and stability of the state.
As of the time of filing this report, there was no official response from the APC in Edo State regarding the allegations.
