Edo Governorship Tribunal: APC, PDP Trade Accusations Over Attack On Lawyers, Members
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State has strongly condemned an alleged attack on its leaders and lawyers at the Edo State Governorship Election Tribunal premises, accusing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of orchestrating the violence.
The incident, which occurred last Monday during the resumed hearing of the tribunal in Benin City, was captured in a viral video showing a violent clash between suspected APC and PDP supporters.
Acting Chairman of APC in Edo State, Emperor Jarret Tenebe, criticized the PDP, alleging that the attack was premeditated. He claimed the APC had forewarned security agencies about a potential attack but received no response.
“This latest attack is one of many that the PDP has carried out since the electioneering process that led to Senator Monday Okpebholo’s victory as Governor of Edo State,” Tenebe stated. He described the attack as “dastardly,” accusing the PDP of hiring thugs armed with axes, bottles, and other dangerous weapons to disrupt the tribunal proceedings and target APC members and lawyers.
Tenebe warned that if security agencies fail to act decisively and arrest those responsible, the APC may resort to self-defense to protect its members.
The APC leader referenced past incidents, including the alleged murder of Inspector Akor Onu near Benin City Airport, claiming that the failure to prosecute those involved has emboldened the PDP.
However, the PDP dismissed the accusations. Chris Nehikhare, the publicity secretary of the PDP Caretaker Committee in Edo State, refused to engage with the APC’s claims. “PDP will not dignify the APC with a response,” Nehikhare said.
The incident has raised concerns about escalating tensions between the two parties as the tribunal proceedings continue to address the outcome of the recent governorship election in Edo State. Security agencies have yet to comment on the matter.
