Former presidential candidate Peter Obi and leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) were reportedly attacked by armed men in Benin City, Edo State, on Tuesday during activities marking the formal defection of Olumide Akpata to the party.
The alarm was raised by Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, who alleged that the attack occurred shortly after Obi and other party leaders left the ADC Secretariat in Benin.
According to Tanko, the group was allegedly trailed by armed individuals to the residence of John Odigie-Oyegun, where gunshots were fired at the gate and several vehicles were damaged.
“We had just concluded our engagement at the ADC Secretariat when armed men began trailing us, They followed us to Chief John Odigie-Oyegun’s residence and opened fire at the gate. Several vehicles were damaged in the process.” Tanko said.
He described the development as a “survived assassination attempt,” adding that the situation was deeply troubling.
“This was not a random incident. It was a direct attack on Peter Obi and the ADC leadership.
We were literally under siege, This poses a serious threat to Nigeria’s democracy and to the safety of opposition figures,” he stated.
Eyewitnesses at the scene also recounted the moment panic broke out.
“We suddenly heard multiple gunshots, and everyone started running for safety, It was chaotic. People were shouting and trying to find cover,” one party supporter said.
Another source within the party said, “It was clearly meant to intimidate us, but we remain resolute. We will not be deterred by acts of violence.”
As of the time of filing this report, no casualties had been officially confirmed. Security agencies in Edo State had yet to release a formal statement regarding the incident.
The attack comes amid heightened political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections, further intensifying concerns about security and political violence in the country.