A police officer identified as Okon was killed when gunmen attacked the convoy of Monday Okpebholo, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in the upcoming Edo State governorship election, and Philip Shaibu, the reinstated deputy governor of the state, in Benin on Thursday, July 18, 2024,
The attack occurred shortly after the convoys left Benin Airport, where both politicians were greeted by supporters.
Shaibu had been impeached on April 8, but was reinstated on Wednesday following a court ruling. Witnesses reported heightened police activity around Shaibu, indicating potential trouble.
The attackers opened fire on the convoys, leading to the death of Okon and injuries to others. The Edo State Government condemned the violence and blamed Shaibu, accusing him of leading thugs through Benin City. However, Shaibu’s associates and Okpebholo’s aide countered that the attack was orchestrated by government-sponsored thugs. The police are investigating the incident.
