By Simeon OSAJIE
The Edo State chapter of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has raised the alarm over alleged political intimidation, threats against opposition members and destruction of campaign materials, warning that the incidents could undermine peaceful participation ahead of the 2027 elections.
The party accused persons allegedly linked to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of disrupting meetings, vandalising campaign banners and threatening its supporters across the state.
But the APC dismissed the allegations as frivolous and baseless, insisting that its members were peace-loving.
The party’s Edo State Publicity Secretary, Barr. Peter Uwadiae, said Governor Monday Okpebholo and APC leaders were focused on winning over more supporters through their statewide tour and the administration’s development projects.
“The governor has turned Edo to a construction site and Edo people are happy. Edo APC members are not violent in nature. I advise NDC to look inward and put its house in order,” Uwadiae said.
The NDC made the allegations in a statement read to journalists in Benin City on Wednesday by its Edo Central Senatorial Candidate, Hon. John Yakubu.
It alleged that campaign materials were destroyed across Edo North, Central and South, while its campaign office in Oredo was vandalised.
The party also cited the reported disruption of meetings and an alleged gun attack on African Democratic Congress (ADC) members in Igueben.
It accused the chairmen of Esan West and Igueben local government councils of threatening opposition members. It further alleged that a Guest House in Illeh-Ekpoma in Esan West local government area was threatened with demolition if used for NDC meetings.
The party also alleged unlawful arrests and detention involving two retired police officers.
It claimed that commercial drivers and motorcycle operators in Esan North-East and Esan West were pressured to wear APC caps.
The NDC called for an investigation into a statement reportedly attributed to APC State Chairman, Jarrett Tenebe, concerning the alleged use of AK-47 rifles against opposition members during the 2027 elections.
“Political opponents are fellow citizens. Firearms have no legitimate place in settling electoral disagreements,” the party said.
It urged Governor Okpebholo and the APC leadership to reject political intimidation, while calling on security agencies to investigate the allegations and protect those facing credible threats.
The party also appealed to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), civil society organisations and the media to support peaceful and credible elections.
It urged its members to remain calm, document incidents and seek redress through lawful means.
“Edo belongs to all its citizens. No party stands above the law,” NDC declared.