Suspected political thugs have reportedly attacked the Edo State secretariat of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Benin City, vandalising property and attempting to set the building on fire.
According to reports, the incident took place on Ogbelaka Street on Wednesday night, sparking tension in the neighbourhood. Residents were said to have confronted the attackers, successfully preventing them from carrying out the alleged arson.
Sources disclosed that the assailants poured fuel on parts of the building in an attempt to burn it down but were forced to retreat after meeting resistance from people in the area. Before fleeing, they reportedly smashed windows and damaged other items inside the secretariat.
A video circulating on social media showed the aftermath of the attack, with a voiceover claiming the hoodlums tried to torch the facility before escaping.
Confirming the incident, the Edo State Chairman of the ADC, Kennedy Odion, said the attackers came with about 10 litres of fuel and had planned to raze the building. He alleged that the attack was politically driven and intended to push the party out of the state ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“Some politicians want ADC out of the state so that no other party can contest the 2027 elections apart from them,” Odion said.
“Elections require inclusive participation. Freedom of association still exists, and no one can be forced to join a political party against their will.”
He added that the matter had been reported to security agencies and called for the perpetrators to be identified and prosecuted.
The Edo State Police Command spokesperson, Eno Ikoedem, also confirmed the attack, stating that police received a report around 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday about suspected hoodlums vandalising the ADC secretariat.
She said officers were immediately deployed to restore calm and secure the area. Preliminary findings, according to her, revealed damage to party flags and two broken windows.
“Security personnel have been stationed in the area to prevent further incidents, while investigations are ongoing to track down those responsible,” she said.