A wave of unrest swept through the secretariat of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State.
By Bala Salihu Dawakin Kudu Democracy Newsline February 18, 2026.
Tension erupted at the state secretariat of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State on Tuesday morning after a group of aggrieved youths stormed the premises and allegedly assaulted the party’s state chairman, leaving him injured and property damaged.
The incident, which occurred in the early hours of the day, sent shockwaves through the political community and disrupted activities at the party’s headquarters. Eyewitnesses said the youths forced their way into the secretariat, chanting slogans and demanding to see the party leadership before the situation degenerated into violence.
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According to sources within the party, the attackers appeared visibly enraged, accusing the state leadership of marginalization, favoritism, and the exclusion of certain members from key decision-making processes. Some of the protesters claimed they had repeatedly sought dialogue with party officials over what they described as “systemic neglect” and “unfair treatment,” but their grievances allegedly went unresolved.
“The atmosphere changed within minutes,” a staff member who requested anonymity told reporters. “They came in shouting and demanding answers. Before anyone could calm them down, they descended on the chairman. It was chaotic.”
Furniture, office equipment, and documents were reportedly destroyed in the melee, while staff and visitors scrambled for safety. The chairman sustained injuries during the attack and was rushed to a nearby medical facility for treatment. Although party officials have not released detailed information about his condition, sources say he is stable and responding to treatment.
Security operatives arrived promptly at the scene following distress calls and succeeded in dispersing the protesters. The swift intervention helped prevent further escalation and restored relative calm to the area. Law enforcement authorities have confirmed the arrest of several suspects in connection with the incident, while investigations are ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the attack and to apprehend others who fled.
A senior police official in the state assured the public that those found culpable would face the full weight of the law. “We will not tolerate acts of violence or lawlessness, regardless of the grievances involved. Political disagreements must be resolved through lawful and peaceful means,” the official stated.
In an official statement released shortly after the incident, the Ondo State chapter of the APC strongly condemned the attack, describing it as “unfortunate and unacceptable.” The party called on its members to exercise restraint and embrace dialogue as the appropriate channel for resolving internal disputes.
“The progress and unity of our great party must not be undermined by acts of violence,” the statement read. “We urge all members to remain calm and allow due process to take its course.”
Political analysts note that internal party disputes have increasingly become a source of tension in several states, particularly as alignments and interests shift ahead of future political contests. Observers warn that failure to address grievances through inclusive engagement could further strain party cohesion.
As investigations continue, stakeholders across the state have appealed for peace and constructive dialogue, emphasizing that political stability is essential not only for party unity but also for the broader development of Ondo State.
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, FEBRUARY 18TH 2026)
