Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has condemned the recent attack on members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing the incident as an internal party crisis that escalated beyond control.

In a statement personally issued on Tuesday night, the governor expressed sympathy with the affected members, lamenting that certain elements allegedly exploited the peaceful atmosphere of the state 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 statement read.

Okpebholo stressed that, as Chief Security Officer of the state, he would not allow Edo to be turned into a theatre of conflict under the pretext of political rivalry.

“Even though the precise motive behind this attack may not yet be fully known, I strongly believe that the ultimate objective is to discredit Edo State and undermine its reputation as one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria,” he stated.

The governor maintained that no amount of political blackmail would deter the people of Edo from supporting a government they hold dear, emphasizing that politics should revolve around performance, people-oriented engagement, and sustained efforts to earn public trust.

He argued that politicians or individuals who allegedly orchestrate violence for political gain demonstrate a lack of substantive value to offer the electorate. According to him, as a leading political force in the state, his party welcomes healthy opposition and would not be intimidated by what he described as blackmail or self-inflicted attacks.

While sympathizing with ADC members and condemning the violence, Okpebholo advised the party to refrain from directing accusations outside its fold, suggesting that the crisis appeared rooted in internal disagreements.

He appealed to residents to remain calm and continue to uphold the peace for which the state is known.

“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 foment unrest to resolve internal disputes before organizing political events in the state, making it clear that any attempt to incite crisis under the guise of political activities would not be tolerated.

He further urged the police and other security agencies to remain vigilant and closely monitor political gatherings that could degenerate into violence, reiterating his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state.