Tensions believed to be linked to political differences turned violent in Aruogba community, Edo State, on 20, January 2026, when armed men invaded the residence of Mrs. Christy Afiakuna in search of her son, businessman and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) politician, Ogioba Osabuohien Kelvin.
The attackers, whom neighbours identified as suspected members of a cult group allegedly working with the ruling party based on their actions during the attack, reportedly stormed the woman’s home in a Lexus vehicle, escalating fears of targeted violence against politically exposed individuals and their families in the area.”
The incident comes barely six months after a similar attack on 11 July 2025 at No. 23 ICE Road, where gunmen searching for Kelvin allegedly shot and killed his associate, popularly known as White Snow, after failing to locate the politician.
Residents say the renewed assault has heightened anxiety across the community, with many fearing further reprisals.
According to Mrs. Afiakuna’s account to reporters, the gunmen drove into her compound through an unlocked gate. Three men emerged from the vehicle, with two entering the house while the third remained outside, apparently acting as a lookout.
The intruders repeatedly demanded to know Kelvin’s whereabouts, insisting they had information that he was hiding in the house with his family.
The visibly shaken elderly woman said she told the attackers she had neither seen nor heard from her son in a long time.
“They kept asking me to call him. I told them I did not know where he was,” she recounted. “Before they left, they warned me to tell my son to keep running because they would find him wherever he goes.”
She further disclosed that the assailants seized her mobile phone and fired several shots into the air while departing, with some bullets striking the walls of the building.
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Neighbours who heard the gunfire rushed to the scene and found Mrs. Afiakuna lying on the floor in shock. She was assisted by residents and later taken for medical attention after suffering stress-induced high blood pressure.
Confirming the attack, the Edo State Police Command said an investigation is underway to identify and apprehend those responsible.
Police spokesperson, Moses Yamu, stated that officers had visited the scene and assured residents of intensified security patrols in the area.
“The command received a distress report regarding the invasion of a residence in Aruogba community by unidentified armed men. Our operatives have commenced investigations, and efforts are ongoing to track down the perpetrators,” he said.
“We urge members of the public with useful information to come forward, while assuring residents that adequate security measures are being put in place to prevent a recurrence.”
Security experts say the incident highlights the increasing vulnerability of politicians’ relatives in areas marked by intense partisan rivalry.
Political risk consultant, Ngozi Eze, warned that such attacks reflect a dangerous escalation of local political disputes.
“Family members of political actors often become unintended targets when conflicts over power and influence intensify at the grassroots level,” she said.
Residents of Aruogba community have called for stronger security presence, expressing concern over ongoing threats and the safety of families connected to political figures.
The attack has renewed debate over political violence in Edo State and the adequacy of measures to protect citizens during periods of heightened tension between rival parties.