…Says party remains committed to peaceful political engagement, democratic participation, and rule of law
…Calls on security agencies to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into Ikpoba Okha attack
By Simeon OSAJIE
Edo State chapter of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has strongly condemned the reported attack on its Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area Secretariat, the destruction and theft of party property, and the persistent vandalisation of campaign materials belonging to its candidates across the state.
This was stated in a press statement signed by State Chairman and Publicity Secretary of the party, Engr. David Olukoga and Abdulkadiri Abdulazeez Omogeh respectively and made available to newsmen in Benin, the state capital.
According to the duo, the party views these incidents with grave concern, as they threaten peaceful political participation, undermine democratic values, and create an atmosphere of fear and intimidation ahead of the forthcoming elections.
“The NOC Local Government Secretariat in Ikpoba Okha was reportedly ransacked and left in a deplorable condition following an attack involving extensive destruction, vandalism, and the alleged theft of party property. The scale of the damage reflects a disturbing disregard for democratic principles, the rule of law, and the right of political parties to operate freely and peacefully.
“The NDC considers this incident particularly troubling in view of similar attacks and acts of intimidation previously reported against the party and its candidates across Edo State. We call on the relevant security agencies to investigate the incident thoroughly, identify those responsible, and ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to justice in accordance with the law.”
Going further, the party stated that the Ikpoba Okha incident is not an isolated occurrence. The NDC and its candidates have reported several incidents of intimidation, threats, and destruction of campaign materials in different parts of the state.
“On the night of September 29, 2026, campaign billboards and other essential campaign materials belonging to the NDC candidate for Etsako Federal Constituency, Hon. Bawa Mohammed Qawleeph, were reportedly vandalised and defaced across the three Local Government Areas within the constituency.
“Similarly, campaign facilities and materials associated with Hon. Frank Omoshigo, the NDC candidate for Oredo Federal Constituency, were reportedly targeted on September 29 and 30, 2026. According to the party, video recordings are available documenting the alleged destruction, defacement, and removal of authorised campaign infrastructure.
“These incidents raise serious concerns about the safety of opposition candidates, party members, campaign workers, and supporters. Political competition must be conducted through peaceful engagement, the presentation of credible policies, and the free choice of voters – not through intimidation, destruction of property, or the obstruction of lawful political activities.
“The party has also expressed concern over alleged threats attributed to the APC-appointed Local Government Chairman in Esan West. According to reports received by the NDC, commercial transport operators, hoteliers, and other business owners were allegedly threatened with sanctions, including eviction from public parks and the revocation of property approvals, if they permitted opposition political branding or hosted political gatherings organised by other parties.”
The leadership of the NDC Edo State Chapter has urged all party stakeholders, candidates, and supporters to remain calm, peaceful, and law-abiding while the party pursues the matter through the appropriate channels.
The party further call on the relevant security agencies to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the Ikpoba Okha attack, identify the perpetrators and any persons who may have sponsored or facilitated the incident, and ensure that those found responsible are prosecuted in accordance with the law.
“The NDC remains committed to peaceful political engagement, democratic participation, and the rule of law. The reported destruction of our property and the vandalisation of our campaign materials will not deter our candidates, discourage our members, or diminish our commitment to presenting our vision to the people of Edo State.
“Our appeal is to all political parties, their leaders, supporters, and relevant authorities to reject violence, discourage inflammatory rhetoric, and uphold the principles of tolerance, fairness, and peaceful coexistence.
“The NDC believes that the future of Edo State must be determined by the free will of its people, not by fear or intimidation. We therefore call on all stakeholders to protect the democratic space and ensure that the forthcoming elections are conducted in an atmosphere of peace, security, and respect for the rights of every political party and eligible voter,” the party added.