Leading opposition figures have criticised the federal government following a violent attack on members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Benin City, Edo State.

The incident occurred shortly after ADC supporters gathered at the party’s state secretariat to welcome former Nigerian Bar Association president Olumide Akpata into the party. Suspected hoodlums reportedly stormed the venue, firing shots and vandalising property, including a residence linked to former APC chairman John Odigie-Oyegun.

Former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi described the attack as an assault on democracy and blamed what he called a failure of leadership by the ruling All Progressives Congress. He said political violence must not be tolerated in any democratic society.

Akpata also condemned the incident, warning that intimidation and violence against opposition parties threaten Nigeria’s political stability. He urged security agencies to identify and prosecute those responsible.

ADC leaders in the South-South zone said several supporters were injured during the attack, adding that the violence disrupted peaceful political activities in the state.

Reacting, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo denounced the incident and called on political actors to conduct their activities peacefully.