The Peoples Democratic Party’s rally in Edo State was brought to an abrupt end on Saturday, July 25, 2020, after some hoodlums reportedly fired gunshots to disrupt the gathering.


Before the gunshots, the state governor, Godwin Obaseki had led the National Chairman of the party, Uche Secondus, and other party chieftains to the Oba of Benin’s palace.
According to TheCable, Obaseki and others were returning to Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium for the campaign when the incident happened.

Shattered glasses as a result of the gunshots. (TheCable)

Shattered glasses as a result of the gunshots. (TheCable) 

While returning to the stadium, the PDP campaign train was said to have clashed with some supporters of the opposing All Progressives Congress (APC).

An eyewitness, who spoke to TheCable said, “We were by the palace gate, and when the governor’s entourage was coming, we still stood there and suddenly we started hearing sporadic gunshots.
“People started running, falling over each other, and about 10 people have sustained injuries.”
Speaking on the incident, the PDP spokesperson in Edo state, Chris Nehikaira alleged that the campaign was peaceful until when “some elements loyal to the APC tried to disrupt the visit of the governor to the palace”.

 
The September 19 governorship election in Edo State is largely between Governor Godwin Obaseki of the PDP and Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu of the APC.