The political landscape of Edo State has been embroiled in a contentious dispute over the ownership and occupancy of a building purportedly serving as the secretariat for both the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC). The PDP has vehemently denounced the APC’s actions, characterizing their entry into the building as an unwarranted invasion and a blatant disregard for the rule of law. They contend that the APC, spearheaded by its state chairman, Jaret Tenebe, orchestrated a forceful takeover of the property, resorting to violence and intimidation. The PDP has urgently appealed to President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the escalating situation, urging him to restrain Governor Monday Okpebholo and the APC before the conflict spirals further out of control.
The PDP’s account of the incident, delivered by Edo State PDP Chairman Dr. Tony Aziegbemi during a press conference, paints a picture of a calculated and aggressive seizure of the secretariat. Aziegbemi, who claims to have been present during the alleged invasion, reported that the APC contingent, comprised of numerous vehicles and a cohort of individuals described as “thugs,” forcibly entered the building, causing extensive damage and creating a hostile environment. Aziegbemi alleges that he was personally targeted, forcibly removed from his office amidst the chaos, and subjected to verbal and physical assault. He further asserts that the police response to the incident was delayed, raising concerns about potential complicity or indifference on the part of law enforcement.
The PDP’s narrative frames the events as part of a larger pattern of intimidation and harassment allegedly perpetrated by the APC under the auspices of the state government. They claim that similar tactics have been employed to displace elected officials and instill fear among local businesses and transportation operators. The PDP has cast the incident as an egregious assault on democratic principles, drawing parallels to oppressive regimes and warning that such actions pose a grave threat to the stability and well-being of Edo State. They have called upon federal authorities, international organizations, and civil society groups to condemn the alleged lawlessness and take decisive action to restore order and protect the democratic process.
The APC, however, presents a starkly different version of events. According to Edo APC State Chairman Jaret Tenebe, the disputed property was originally leased to the APC under a seven-year tenancy agreement. He claims that the building was subsequently appropriated by former Governor Godwin Obaseki after his defection to the PDP in 2020. This conflicting account introduces a layer of complexity to the dispute, raising questions about the validity of each party’s claim to the property and the legality of the actions taken. The competing narratives underscore the deeply entrenched political divisions within Edo State and the potential for such disputes to escalate into larger conflicts.
The clash over the secretariat reflects the broader power struggle between the PDP and the APC in Edo State. The accusations of violence, intimidation, and disregard for the rule of law raise serious concerns about the political climate in the region. The PDP’s appeal to higher authorities highlights their perception of the gravity of the situation and their belief that the state government is either unwilling or unable to address the issue impartially. The conflicting accounts of the incident emphasize the need for a thorough and independent investigation to determine the facts and hold those responsible for any wrongdoing accountable.
The future of Edo State’s political landscape hinges on the resolution of this dispute and the broader issues it represents. The ability of the PDP and the APC to engage in constructive dialogue and find common ground will be crucial for restoring stability and ensuring that the democratic process is respected and upheld. The involvement of federal authorities and civil society organizations may be necessary to mediate the conflict and prevent further escalation. Ultimately, the citizens of Edo State deserve a political environment free from violence, intimidation, and the arbitrary exercise of power. The peaceful resolution of this dispute is essential for fostering trust in government and ensuring that the voices of all stakeholders are heard and respected.
