A senior figure in the African Democratic Congress, Olumide Akpata, has claimed that recent violence surrounding the party’s event in Benin City on February 24, 2026, was intended to intimidate voters and discourage political participation.
The incident took place during Akpata’s formal defection to the ADC, an event attended by former Anambra State governor and 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, along with other opposition representatives.
Accounts of the disturbance suggested that armed individuals allegedly pursued Obi and other ADC members from the party secretariat to the residence of former national chairman, John Odigie-Oyegun.
Reports indicated that gunshots were fired near the gate and that vehicles in the convoy sustained damage, though no fatalities were confirmed.
In an interview on February 27, 2026, with Arise News, Akpata stated that the attack appeared to be a calculated effort to discourage democratic engagement.
He alleged that supporters identified with the ADC were singled out for harassment and that individuals wearing party-branded items were targeted.
He further claimed that a firearm was discharged during the chaos, with shots reportedly fired into the air or ground, causing fragments that injured at least one person.
READ ALSO: Gunmen Attack Peter Obi, Odigie-Oyegun, ADC Leaders In Edo
Akpata argued that the circumstances suggested political intolerance and urged authorities to investigate thoroughly.
He also criticized remarks attributed to Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, who reportedly described the incident as an internal party matter.
Akpata described the comment as premature, insisting that the focus should be on identifying those responsible.
He called for a transparent inquiry and accountability for any wrongdoing.
The state government has not publicly confirmed the governor’s remarks, while security agencies have yet to announce arrests related to the incident.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the violence.
Political tension remain elevated in Edo State as parties prepare for future electoral contests amid heightened concerns over campaign security and democratic participation.