Benin City, January 17, 2025 — The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State has been accused of engaging in criminal trespass, breaking and entering, stealing, and malicious damage in a violent assault on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) secretariat on Airport Road, Benin City. The incident, which occurred at 1:31 PM on January 16, 2025, has raised concerns about the potential for a breakdown of law and order in the state.
According to reports, the APC, led by Jarret Tenebe, deployed several Hilux vans and other vehicles, along with thugs backed by police officers from the Government House, to forcibly remove the PDP from its secretariat. The operation, described as violent and brutal, lasted for over an hour, resulting in extensive vandalism and destruction of property. Banners and other materials were destroyed, and lives were put in danger, including that of Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, the Chairman of the PDP in Edo State, who was forcefully removed from his office with the assistance of Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly.
Dr. Tony Aziegbemi condemned the attack, describing it as the worst assault on democracy in Nigeria since the nation’s return to democratic rule in 1999. He compared the actions of the Okpebholo-led government to those of military regimes before 1999, stating that even they were not as violent or brutal against dissenting voices. Aziegbemi asserted that the PDP is the legitimate tenant of the property and accused the APC of using devious tactics to intimidate and remove duly elected council chairmen and vice chairmen from office.
The PDP has called on the Federal Government, international agencies, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to intervene and rein in Governor Monday Okpebholo, whom they accuse of lawlessness and executive rascality. They warned that the current situation in Edo State is precarious and could lead to anarchy and chaos if not addressed.
