Umuahia, Nigeria — The All Progressives Congress (APC) Ward Congress in Ondo State turned violent Wednesday, resulting in at least two fatalities and numerous injuries. The organized event, aimed at electing local ward executives across the state’s 203 wards, faced disruption in the Idanre Local Government Area when thugs reportedly affiliated with the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) stormed the scene.
The violence erupted as armed assailants arrived in six vehicles, overwhelming security and chasing away party members and officials tasked with overseeing the congress. Among the injured was Raphael Adetimehin, the younger brother of the state party chairman, Ade Adetimehin, who was critically wounded and is currently in a coma at a local hospital.
Witnesses reported heightened tensions as rival factions fought over control of delegate lists and ward positions, resulting in brawls that escalated into gunfire. Similar disturbances occurred in several wards surrounding the state capital, particularly in Iju/Ita Ogbolu within the Akure North Local Government Area, where clashes reportedly continued for hours.
Responding to the chaos, local law enforcement, led by Commissioner of Police Lawal Adebowale and the Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Oluyemi Ibiloye, dispatched tactical teams to restore order. According to police spokesperson DSP Jimoh Abayomi, five individuals suffered injuries during the assault, and a vehicle was set ablaze amid the turmoil.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa condemned the violence, attributing it to “miscreants” aligned with political aspirants. He pledged to hold those accountable for the disruption and ensure justice is served.
As investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the violence, the incident raises concerns over the safety of future political gatherings in the region. The APC had anticipated a peaceful congress, but the disruption highlights the ongoing challenges faced by political parties in maintaining order during such events.