The Nigeria Police Force in Ondo State has arrested 13 suspects in connection with the violent attack that disrupted the All Progressives Congress ward congress in Idanre, Idanre Local Government Area of the state.
The attack, which occurred on Wednesday, February 18, left two people dead, three others injured, and properties destroyed. The incident caused panic in the community and raised concerns about political violence in the state.
The arrests were confirmed in a statement issued on Saturday in Akure by the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Abayomi Jimoh. He said the operation that led to the arrests was ordered by the Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, Adebowale Lawal.
According to Jimoh, the police launched an intelligence-led manhunt immediately after the attack. He said the command acted swiftly to track down those involved in the violence.
“The attack resulted in the tragic loss of two lives, injuries to three persons, and the destruction of property,” the statement said. “This prompted the Commissioner of Police to direct an intensive intelligence-driven operation to arrest all those connected to the crime.”
Jimoh explained that the suspects were arrested during coordinated operations carried out at strategic locations in Idanre. The operation was led by officers from the Idanre Police Division, who acted on credible intelligence and sustained surveillance.
The 13 suspects, all men, are between the ages of 25 and 55. Police said they are currently in custody and have made useful statements to investigators.
“The command is diligently working to unravel the full circumstances surrounding the attack, identify any additional collaborators, and determine the specific roles played by each suspect,” Jimoh added.
He stressed that the arrests are part of efforts to ensure that everyone involved in the violence is identified and prosecuted.
Ward congresses are internal party activities where members at the grassroots level elect officials to run party affairs in their wards. Such congresses are important because they shape the structure of the party ahead of local government, state and national elections.
The All Progressives Congress, which is the ruling party at the federal level, has been conducting ward congresses across different states as part of its internal political process.
However, internal party elections in Nigeria have sometimes been marked by tension and rivalry among members. In some cases, disagreements over candidates and positions have led to clashes.
Ondo State has witnessed political rivalry in the past, especially during election periods. While many political activities are peaceful, there have been isolated cases of violence linked to party disputes.
Commissioner of Police Adebowale Lawal assured residents that the command is determined to bring all those responsible to justice. He warned individuals or groups planning to disturb public peace that the police would not hesitate to act decisively.
Jimoh also conveyed Lawal’s appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for his continued support and guidance.
According to the statement, the IGP’s support has strengthened the command’s ability to respond quickly to security challenges across Ondo State.
The police called on residents of Idanre and other parts of the state to remain calm and law-abiding. They urged members of the public to provide useful information that could help ongoing investigations.
The killing of two persons during the ward congress has sparked concern among community leaders and residents. Many have called for political actors to promote peace and dialogue instead of violence.
Political violence remains a major concern in Nigeria, especially during party primaries and elections. Security agencies have repeatedly warned politicians and their supporters against engaging in actions that could lead to bloodshed.
Civil society groups have also stressed the need for political parties to manage internal disputes peacefully. They say democracy can only grow when party processes are transparent and free from violence.
In recent years, the police and other security agencies have increased efforts to monitor political gatherings and prevent clashes. Intelligence gathering and community policing have been key parts of this strategy.
The Ondo State Police Command has appealed to residents to cooperate with security agencies. Jimoh said information from members of the public is often crucial in solving crimes and preventing further violence.
He assured that the suspects would be properly investigated and charged to court if found culpable.
“Our resolve is firm. All those involved in this heinous act will face the full weight of the law,” the statement said.
As investigations continue, many residents of Idanre hope the arrests will bring some relief and restore confidence in the safety of political activities in the area.
