A physical confrontation between two Edo indigenes living in the United Kingdom has ignited a new wave of political and cultural tension within Edo State. The incident, which took place during a meet-and-greet event in Manchester, involved Albert Obazee, a well-known supporter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and former governor Godwin Obaseki, and a man popularly known as “Double Chief,” a staunch supporter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Governor Monday Okpebholo.
The altercation, captured in a widely circulated video, has deepened long-standing political and cultural divisions among Edo people both at home and in the diaspora. The video shows Double Chief confronting Obazee at the venue of the event before delivering a slap that brought the gathering to a halt and triggered chaos among attendees.
The fallout has been swift. Supporters of Governor Okpebholo and loyalists of the Oba of Benin have taken to social media to taunt Obazee, while supporters of Obazee and allies of former governor Obaseki are demanding the arrest of Double Chief.
The clash did not occur in isolation. It is connected to wider political tension in Edo State, where rivalries between supporters of former governor Godwin Obaseki and the current administration under Governor Okpebholo have intensified as both parties prepare for future political battles.
Albert Obazee, who lives in Leeds, has been a long-time critic of Governor Okpebholo. His criticisms have ranged from policy direction to political appointments and what he describes as “a lack of leadership vision” in the current Edo administration. Obazee is also seen by many as a defender of Obaseki’s legacy.
Double Chief, on the other hand, has openly identified with Governor Okpebholo and is well-known among APC supporters in Edo and the United Kingdom. He has a history of strong political commentary, often clashing with PDP supporters online.
Beyond politics, the clash also reflects deeper cultural disagreements that have shaped public discourse in Edo State in recent years. There was a well-publicised disagreement between former governor Obaseki and the Oba of Benin over the return of artworks looted during the colonial era.
While the Oba sought to establish a royal museum to house the artefacts, Obaseki proposed a state-owned museum. This difference in vision created a strain between the palace and the former state government, leading to heated debates among Edo people. Many traditionalists backed the Oba, while others supported Obaseki’s plan for a public facility.
Albert Obazee took Obaseki’s side during the dispute and became known as a vocal critic of the Oba. Double Chief, however, identifies strongly with the Benin palace and often defends the Oba online.
This cultural divide added fuel to the existing political rivalry between the two men, setting the stage for their eventual confrontation.
According to accounts from those present and evidence from the video, Obazee had organised a small political event in Manchester, describing it as a meet-and-greet for supporters of former governor Obaseki. He streamed the event live on social media, telling viewers that the venue was not a secret.
It was during the livestream that Double Chief arrived at the location. Walking up to Obazee, he introduced himself clearly, saying: “I am Double Chief, the person you said you were looking for.”
Obazee, visibly surprised, repeatedly responded with “I greet you,” attempting to diffuse the confrontation or perhaps avoid a public argument. Double Chief insisted they step aside to “talk,” but Obazee continued to greet him rather than engage.
The exchange grew tense as Double Chief reminded Obazee of their earlier online insults and repeated challenges. Obazee tried to turn the accusation around, saying it was Double Chief who had been looking for him, not the other way around.
Suddenly, Double Chief delivered a heavy slap to Obazee’s face. The video shows people rushing to separate them as commotion filled the venue.
Following the incident, the two political camps immediately took their battles to social media.
Supporters of Governor Okpebholo and loyalists of the Oba of Benin openly mocked Obazee, calling the slap “a victory.” Memes, edited videos, and celebratory posts flooded various platforms.
Double Chief subsequently travelled to Benin City, where he was photographed with Governor Okpebholo and other state officials. Videos of his arrival showed supporters cheering and hailing him—further aggravating Obazee’s supporters.
Those in Obazee’s camp, including PDP supporters and loyalists of former governor Obaseki, have condemned the violence and are calling for Double Chief’s arrest. They argue that physical attacks over political disagreements set a dangerous precedent.
Edo politics has long been known for its passion, sharp rhetoric, and intense loyalty. From the era of the late Adams Oshiomhole–Tony Anenih rivalry to the more recent Obaseki–Oshiomhole schism, the state has experienced waves of political tension that often spill into diaspora communities.
Although the incident occurred on UK soil, there are growing questions about whether British authorities will become involved. Supporters of Obazee have urged him to file a police report, which could lead to legal consequences for Double Chief.
The incident also highlights the growing influence of diaspora politics. Many Edo political actors abroad play an active role in shaping discourse at home through social media platforms, fundraising, and political mobilisation.
The Manchester confrontation has widened Edo’s political and cultural fault lines. While some see it as a personal clash blown out of proportion, others view it as a reflection of a deepening political crisis that requires urgent cooling measures from community leaders.
