NDC, ADC Demand End To Political Intimidation, Violence In Edo

by MIKE OSAROGIAGBON

Two opposition parties in Edo State, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), have accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of political intimidation, violence and destruction of opposition campaign materials ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The parties raised the alarm on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at a joint press conference in Benin City, demanding an immediate end to alleged attacks and intimidation of opposition members.

The joint briefing followed a similar press conference by the NDC last week, when it accused the ruling party of political hostility and attacks on its members.

Again, the APC dismissed the allegations, describing them as frivolous.

Its Publicity Secretary, Barr. Peter Uwadiae, maintained that APC members were peace-loving and urged the opposition parties to address their internal challenges rather than accuse the ruling party.

“NDC and ADC have a foundational problem. Remember, NDC is a product of the internal crisis that rocked the ADC. That crisis is still haunting them. A party that wants to win elections in 2027 should by now come out with a manifesto and tell Edo people what it has for them,” he said.

Barr. Uwadiae added that the APC that the Governor Monday Okpebholo’s SHINE Agenda was already speaking for the party in Edo.

“We are too preoccupied to conceive violence,” he said.

Earlier, NDC Chairman, Engr. David Olukoga, and ADC Chairman, Tony Alile, alleged that opposition members, candidates and supporters had faced repeated attacks, threats and harassment.

Engr Olukoga cited the alleged vandalisation of the NDC secretariat in Ikpoba-Okha and destruction of campaign billboards belonging to candidates Hon. Bawa Mohammed Qaleeph and Hon. Frank Uyi Omosigho.

He also alleged that transport operators and business owners had been threatened with sanctions for displaying opposition campaign materials or hosting political gatherings.

Mr. Alile, on his part, recalled alleged attacks involving ADC leaders, including Chief John Odigie-Oyegun and former presidential candidate, Dr. Peter Obi, during which vehicles and other properties were damaged.

He also cited alleged attacks on the residence of Professor Oserieme Osunbor, destruction of ADC campaign materials and the reported shooting of Jerry Oliha during an attack on ADC chieftain, Kenneth Imansuangbon, at Igueben on October 6.

The ADC chairman further condemned alleged threats attributed to APC State Chairman, Jarrett Tenebe, including remarks about using AK-47 rifles against those unwilling to support the ruling party in 2027.

The opposition leaders warned against turning Edo into a theatre of political violence, insisting that political competition must not become a licence for intimidation.

They said their parties would not resort to self-help, disclosing that complaints had been lodged with the Commissioner of Police and the Department of State Services (DSS).

They demanded impartial investigations, prosecution of anyone found culpable, responsible political rhetoric and neutrality from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

They also called for a level playing field and adequate protection for all political parties, urging their supporters to shun provocation and pursue their political ambitions through lawful means.

The parties insisted that Edo people must be allowed to choose their leaders freely through the ballot, not through intimidation or violence.