A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State, Mr. John Mayaki, has condemned the factional crisis rocking the Edo State chapter of the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC), as well as the reported attack on the residence of its national leader, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun.
He urged the party to resolve its internal disputes ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Mayaki was reacting to a protest led by Senator Roland Owie and other ADC leaders at Oyegun’s residence, amid a lingering leadership crisis within the party that has continued to escalate.
According to Mayaki, in a democratic setting, the role of the opposition is vital and cannot be undermined. However, he stressed that opposition parties must ensure internal cohesion and stability ahead of elections to avoid unnecessary controversies or allegations of political suppression.
His words, “we all watched the video of the protest staged by some ADC leaders against Chief Oyegun. Among those present was former Senate Chief Whip, Senator Roland Owie, who alleged that they were shut out of a meeting held at the residence of the party leader on Monday.
“Also reportedly denied access to Oyegun’s meeting were one of the party’s founders and financiers in the state, Mr. Sunny Aguebor, as well as a national leader of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Mr. Douglas Iyike, among others.
“The protest took place on Monday, and by the following day, reports of gunshots at the same residence had emerged. While I strongly condemn the escalation of this crisis, I urge the party’s leadership to immediately put its house in order to avoid being distracted as we approach the 2027 elections.”
Mayaki added that political disagreements should be resolved through dialogue rather than actions capable of heating up the polity.
He further expressed concern over what he described as a disturbing pattern of unrest following recent political visits by Mr. Peter Obi, to the state.
His words, “of particular concern is the recurring tension that appears to trail Mr. Peter Obi’s political visits to Edo State. When such visits are repeatedly followed by reports of unrest or violence, it becomes a matter that deserves careful scrutiny and investigation.
“We urge security agencies to thoroughly investigate these incidents to determine the root causes and prevent further breakdown of law and order. Any emerging pattern of violence, regardless of the personalities involved, should be a source of concern to all well-meaning citizens.
“Edo State must not be turned into a theatre of political instability. All political actors must conduct their activities peacefully and in accordance with the law, while security agencies remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding lives and property.”
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