A verbal dispute erupts between the Coalition of Registered Political Parties (CRPP) and Edo State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Prince Kassim Afegbua, over CRPP’s continued criticism of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration. The exchange follows Afegbua’s remarks at a press conference in Benin City on June 11, 2026, where he accuses CRPP of spreading falsehoods about the Children’s Day celebration at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium. Afegbua says that some students collapsed during the event after a stampede and argues that CRPP’s figures are overstated, claiming that only 17 children were affected by teargas fired by private security personnel. He also states that the children received treatment, with 15 discharged the same day and the remaining two the next.
CRPP leaders, including Dr. Samson Isibor and Nka Waribe, respond by condemning Afegbua’s comments, describing him as more focused on defending the government than addressing core public issues. They argue that his remarks lack civility and are meant to intimidate opposition. The coalition maintains that its criticism is intended to hold the governor accountable on security, employment, and food production, and it calls for Afegbua’s removal while citing praise for his predecessor, Hon. Paul Ohonbamu, for what they describe as better communication.
