NDC Accuses Political Opponents of Vandalising Campaign Materials in Edo
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Edo State chapter, has condemned the alleged vandalism of campaign materials and offices belonging to its candidates in the state, describing the incidents as acts of political intolerance and intimidation.
The party said campaign billboards and other campaign materials belonging to its candidate for Etsako Federal Constituency, Hon. Bawa Mohammed Qaleeph, were vandalised across the three local government areas of the constituency on the night of September 29, 2026.
In a statement issued on October 1 and signed by the NDC Edo State Publicity Secretary, Azeez Obogeh, the party also alleged that the campaign office of its Oredo Federal Constituency candidate, Hon. Frank Omosigho, was targeted on September 29 and 30.
According to the statement, video recordings captured the alleged destruction, defacement and removal of authorised campaign infrastructure at the Oredo campaign office.
The party further alleged that the incidents were accompanied by threats against campaign personnel, which it said were intended to create fear and restrict legitimate political mobilisation in the affected constituencies.
The NDC described the alleged attacks as a violation of democratic principles, multi-party participation and citizens’ constitutional rights to freedom of expression and association.
It also linked the incidents in Oredo and Etsako to an earlier controversy in Esan West Local Government Area, where it alleged that the APC-appointed local government chairman threatened commercial transport operators, hoteliers and business owners with sanctions if they allowed opposition campaign branding or hosted alternative political gatherings.
The party said the incidents in Oredo, Etsako and Esan West represented a coordinated attempt to create a “monopolistic political landscape” through intimidation, sabotage and violence.
Obogeh disclosed that the party’s Edo State leadership had lodged formal criminal complaints with the relevant security commands over the alleged incidents.
The NDC called on the Edo State Police Command, the Department of State Services (DSS) and other internal security agencies to investigate the allegations and take action against those responsible.
It specifically urged the security agencies to use available digital and video evidence to identify and prosecute those behind the alleged vandalism, investigate threats allegedly made by public officials and strengthen surveillance to protect citizens.
The party maintained that the power to determine political leadership rests with the electorate and should be exercised through peaceful consideration of candidates’ manifestos, character and policy proposals.
“NDC is in the heart of every Nigerian. Destroying our banners will not curtail the acceptance our candidates enjoy,” the statement said.
The party urged its members and supporters to remain calm and law-abiding, while assuring them that its leadership would continue to engage the relevant security agencies to ensure that order was restored.
