‘We won’t tolerate irresponsible behaviour’ — Edo condemns ‘clash’ between Akpata, UNIBEN students

The Edo government has condemned an alleged clash between Olumide Akpata, the Labour Party’s governorship candidate in the state, and students of the University of Benin (UNIBEN).

On Wednesday, Akpata held an interactive session at the senior staff club, Oshodin pavilion in UNIBEN.

Subsequently, Akpata alleged that he was “attacked by some students” who claimed they were not carried along in the meeting.

But in a viral video, a student of the varsity claimed to have been shot in the leg by one Akpata’s security detail.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Chris Nehikhare, commissioner for communication and orientation, said the government will not tolerate “irresponsible behaviour” from the students and the governorship candidate.

“The Edo State Government condemns in the strongest terms the violence associated with the Labour Party candidate, Mr Olumide Akpata’s visit to the University of Benin on Friday, April 12, 2024,” the statement reads.

“Claims and counterclaims have been made by Mr Akpata and the Student Union Government (SUG) of the University in statements issued by both parties on April 13.

“The Edo State Government, however, warns in the strongest terms that it will not tolerate violence or this sort of irresponsible behaviour which was associated with the visit of Mr Akpata to the institution.

“Government has the primary responsibility to ensure the security of lives and property in the State and will spare no effort to ensure that anyone who breaches the peace, no matter how highly placed, will face the full weight of the law.”

The Edo government asked residents to go about their lawful businesses, adding that relevant agencies are investigating the incident.