The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly condemned what it described as a gun attack and attempted assassination in Edo State.
The party said the incident targeted former governor John Oyegun, party leader Peter Obi, and Olumide Akpata, who recently joined the ADC.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of fostering political violence.
ADC claimed the attack formed part of a wider pattern of intimidation against opposition figures across the country.
According to the party, the shooting was not a random event but a deliberate act intended to frighten and silence political opponents. It added that using gunfire against politicians in a democratic system is unacceptable and dangerous.
The ADC also expressed concern over recent remarks by Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo. The party alleged that the governor had previously stated he could not guarantee Peter Obi’s safety if he visited the state. It further accused him of claiming that the ADC sponsors cult groups and of threatening to demolish properties linked to opposition members.
The party described such statements as reckless and capable of escalating tensions in the state. It stressed that no governor or political party owns any state in Nigeria, and that all citizens have the right to move freely, speak openly, and participate in politics without fear.
ADC warned that if any of its leaders, members, or supporters are harmed due to what it termed rising hostility and threats, those responsible would be held accountable for the consequences.
The statement read: “We are compiling all cases of acts of terrorism by the ruling APC against our party. We shall soon be making our reports available to all diplomatic missions as well as the ECOWAS Court of Human Rights.”
Despite the situation, the party affirmed that it would not be intimidated.
“Let no one be left in doubt: regardless of the level of intimidation, ADC will not bow to terror and will take all lawful means to protect its members and facilities across the country. We urge all our members to remain vigilant and to go about their lawful activities without fear,” it added.
The party urged its members nationwide to remain calm and alert and continue their lawful political activities without fear.
