Edo Rep’s Aide Alleges Assault, Links Attack To Post-Primary Tension

Mr Eghosa Edomwonyi, an aide to the member representing Orhionmwon/Uhunmwonde Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon Billy Osawaru,   has alleged that he was attacked by suspected thugs in Benin City after the just-concluded All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries in Edo State.

Edomwonyi alleged that the incident occurred late Saturday night at a hotel in the Government Reserved Area (GRA) of Benin City, shortly after a victory celebration organised for an APC candidate who emerged victorious in the Orhionmwon South Constituency primaries.

Narrating his ordeal, Edomwonyi claimed the attack may not be unconnected to political disagreements arising from the outcome of the APC primaries.

According to him, “The incident happened at about 11pm on May 24, 2026, at Wesley Hotel, where one of my very good friends, who emerged as the APC candidate for Orhionmwon South Constituency, was celebrating his victory.

“As I was about leaving the venue, one Mr. Ozabor Aisowerie, younger brother to Hon. Patrick Aisowerie, the Edo State NDDC Commissioner, allegedly approached me with about five other persons at the car park. He accused me of insulting his elder brother.

“I denied the allegation and challenged him to provide evidence. The next thing, the people who came with him descended on me and beat me severely. It took the intervention of security personnel at the hotel to rescue me. I believe their mission was to assassinate me.”

Edomwonyi further alleged that the attack was politically motivated, noting that all parties involved belong to the APC.

“We are all from Orhionmwon and members of the same political party. I noticed there had been grievances over the outcome of the primaries. During the incident, there were also threats directed at my principal, Hon. Billy Osawaru,” he claimed.

He disclosed that the matter has been reported at the Oba Market Police Station, adding that he subsequently received treatment at the Police Clinic in Benin City.

Reacting to the allegation, Ozabor Aisowerie denied involvement in any attack or assassination attempt, describing the claims as false.

“I don’t know what he is talking about. The allegation is completely false. I think he is confused,” Aisowerie said.

While confirming he was at the hotel, he maintained that he was not involved in any violent act.

“Yes, I was at the venue that night and I saw them around. When I got there, he appeared drunk. I am a gentleman and I do not engage in violence,” he stated.

Aisowerie further disclosed that he had also lodged a formal complaint with the Department of State Services, DSS.

As of the time of filing this report, the Edo State Police Command had yet to issue an official statement on the incident.