Edo Police Confirm Unrest at ADC Events, Order Full Investigation

The Nigeria Police Force, Edo State Command, has confirmed incidents of unrest at political activities organised by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Benin City on February 24, 2026.

In a statement, the command said the disturbance occurred at about 2:55 p.m. at the ADC State Secretariat located on Ogbelaka Street, off Sapele Road, when some hoodlums allegedly infiltrated the gathering, causing panic and a stampede shortly after the programme had ended and most dignitaries had departed.

According to the police, the attackers created commotion, chased participants away and vandalised property, including plastic chairs and canopies arranged for the event outside the premises.
Police patrol teams were said to have responded swiftly to the distress call, but the hoodlums fled on sighting the operatives.

The command said no casualties were recorded. However, one woman sustained injuries during the stampede, which were not related to gunfire. She was treated at a nearby chemist and discharged.
Security has since been reinforced around the secretariat and surrounding areas to prevent further breakdown of law and order.

In a related development, the police said a distress call was received at about 3:48 p.m. reporting gunshots at the residence of the ADC State Chairman and former Edo State Governor, John Odigie-Oyegun.
On arrival, operatives reportedly observed signs of malicious damage, including broken rear windscreens and damage to vehicles parked outside the residence. The command also confirmed that no casualties were recorded in the incident.

The Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, Monday Agbonika, has ordered a full-scale investigation to identify and prosecute those responsible.
The command reaffirmed its commitment to providing adequate security for all political stakeholders, irrespective of party affiliation, and warned that political violence would not be tolerated.

Members of the public were urged to remain calm and provide useful information to aid investigations. The police also disclosed that political party leaders have been invited to a meeting with the commissioner to strengthen peaceful political activities in the state.