KEY POINTS

• Two people were killed and five injured after violence broke out during an APC ward congress in Idanre.

• The attack is linked to earlier unrest and alleged political rivalries within the party.

• Security forces restored order and police have launched an investigation into the incident.

A ward congress organised by the All Progressives Congress in Idanre, Ondo State, descended into chaos on Wednesday, leaving two people dead and five others injured. The incident occurred at Odode-Idanre, the local government headquarters, as party members gathered for internal elections across the state’s 203 wards.

The violence is believed to be connected to unrest a day earlier at the party secretariat in Akure, where suspected hoodlums disrupted a stakeholders’ meeting and reportedly assaulted party leaders. Among those attacked was Raphael Adetimehin, younger brother of state caretaker chairman Ade Adetimehin.

Witnesses said Raphael was mistaken for his brother and attacked with machetes after gunshots allegedly failed to penetrate him. His vehicle was also reportedly set ablaze, and he was rushed to a hospital where he was said to be in critical condition.

Political accusations surface

Adetimehin described the assault as politically motivated, alleging it was carried out by thugs connected to Tajudeen Adefisoye, whom he claimed is allied with Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa. A family source later suggested Raphael may have died from his injuries, although authorities had not officially confirmed that claim at the time of reporting.

The Nigeria Police Force confirmed the outbreak of violence, stating that five individuals suffered injuries while two others were confirmed dead at a hospital. Police said the victims sustained varying degrees of wounds and are receiving treatment.

Commissioner of Police Adebowale Lawal and the state commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Oluyemi Ibiloye, led a joint security operation to the scene. Officers secured the area, dispersed crowds, and prevented further escalation.

Authorities said investigations have begun to identify those responsible for the violence and ensure they face prosecution.