Deadly Attack Mars Homecoming of Edo Deputy Governor and APC Candidate July 19, 2024

By Osaiyekemwen Confidence

A homecoming celebration turned tragic yesterday when hoodlums attacked the convoy of Edo State Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu and All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Monday Okpebholo. The violence erupted shortly after their arrival at Benin Airport, where supporters had gathered to celebrate their recent court victory.

The attack resulted in the death of Police Inspector Akor Onu, who was part of Okpebholo’s security detail. Several colleagues and bystanders were also injured in the ambush. All the wounded were rushed to undisclosed hospitals across Benin, the state capital. It remains unclear whether Okpebholo was injured, although he has been admitted to a hospital for medical attention.

Security forces, including military personnel, were quickly deployed across Benin and surrounding areas to prevent any further violence. Attempts to contact Edo Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) Chidi Nwabuzor for comments were unsuccessful.

According to EyesofAfrika TV, the attack occurred as Shaibu and Okpebholo’s motorcade traveled down the dualised Benin Airport Road. Witnesses reported that assailants in a Toyota Sienna opened fire on the convoy, causing chaos and bloodshed. This incident has overshadowed the celebration of Shaibu’s reinstatement as deputy governor by the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Godswill Inegbe, Okpebholo’s legislative aide in media and communication, detailed the assault, stating that three riot policemen sustained severe injuries. He alleged that the attack was orchestrated by thugs led by a former APC member who recently defected to another party.

“This afternoon, the motorcade of Senator Monday Okpebholo, the APC’s governorship candidate in Edo State, was attacked by thugs,” Inegbe said. “During the unprovoked attack, three mobile policemen attached to Senator Okpebholo’s security detail were injured, and one has been declared dead. Senator Okpebholo is currently hospitalized in an undisclosed facility in Benin City, receiving medical attention, along with other victims of the attack.”

The APC members in Edo State have condemned the violence, demanding the immediate arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators and their leader. The incident has escalated tensions ahead of the September 21 gubernatorial election, highlighting the volatile political atmosphere in the region.