Unrest erupted at the Edo State High Court in Benin City on Monday as suspected thugs disrupted the pre-hearing session of the governorship election tribunal.
The tribunal session was convened to deliberate on petitions challenging the validity of the September 21 governorship election results, which were declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission.
The tension began when supporters of seven political parties, contesting the victory of the All Progressives Congress, gathered peacefully at the court premises. According to the Foundation for Investigative Journalism, the gathering aimed to demonstrate their stance on the election results and observe the tribunal proceedings.
However, chaos soon ensued as unidentified individuals launched an attack on the group, throwing objects at them outside the courtroom. The sudden violence disrupted the atmosphere, causing panic among attendees and bystanders.
In response, security personnel stationed at the court swiftly intervened to control the situation. They restricted access to the courtroom and erected roadblocks on the main route leading to the court premises, ensuring that the unrest did not escalate further.
