Prominent Nigerian political figures, including former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and elder statesman Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, a former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), narrowly escaped death today following an alleged armed attack described by witnesses as a failed assassination attempt.
The incident unfolded in Benin City, the Edo State capital, shortly after a high-profile event at the African Democratic Congress (ADC) Secretariat. The gathering marked the formal declaration of Barrister Olumide Akpata a former Labour Party governorship candidate in Edo State into the ADC. The ceremony was seen as a strategic move to bolster the party's influence and foster greater unity among opposition figures ahead of upcoming political activities.
According to multiple reports and statements from party officials, including Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, armed individuals reportedly trailed the convoy of Obi, Odigie-Oyegun, and other ADC chieftains from the secretariat to Odigie-Oyegun's residence. Upon arrival, the assailants opened fire at the gate, riddling several vehicles with bullets and causing widespread panic.
Eyewitness accounts and circulating videos show extensive damage to vehicles and the property gate, with bullet holes clearly visible. Thankfully, no fatalities were reported, and all key figures including Obi and Odigie-Oyegun escaped unharmed. However, some reports indicate injuries to a few individuals at or near the ADC Secretariat in a related or separate disturbance shortly after the leaders departed.
The African Democratic Congress issued a strong condemnation of the attack, describing it as "brazen and cowardly" and carried out by "suspected armed thugs and gunmen." In a statement, the party emphasized that the assault was not merely an attack on individuals but a grave threat to Nigeria's democracy, political pluralism, freedom of association, and the right to peaceful political engagement.
This unprovoked assault has been confirmed through statements from the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Yunusa Tanko, and accounts from those at the scene. The ADC said, noting that while lives were spared, the incident instilled fear among supporters and citizens exercising their democratic rights.
The party called for an immediate, thorough, and impartial investigation by the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to identify and prosecute the perpetrators without delay. It also urged authorities to provide enhanced protection for political leaders and citizens involved in legitimate activities, while appealing to all political actors to denounce violence and embrace issue-based competition for the nation's progress.
Peter Obi, speaking in a circulating video after the incident, described the event as a troubling reflection on the state of Nigeria's democracy, underscoring the need to safeguard peaceful political participation.
The ADC reiterated its unwavering commitment to pursuing good governance, economic renewal, and national unity through non-violent, democratic channels, vowing not to be deterred by intimidation. The party expressed appreciation for the support from well-meaning Nigerians and called for calm as investigations proceed.
This incident has heightened concerns about rising political tensions in Edo State and across Nigeria, particularly as opposition figures increasingly align to challenge the ruling party ahead of future elections. Security analysts note that such attacks, if unaddressed, could undermine public confidence in the democratic process.
No group has claimed responsibility for the attack and police have yet to issue an official statement on the matter as investigations begin.