Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has spoken out after escaping an assassination attempt in Edo State.
Gunmen on Tuesday attacked the convoy of the former Anambra State governor in Benin, shortly after he attended a political event in the state. The attack reportedly took place at the residence of former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), John Odigie-Oyegun.
Videos circulating online showed bullet holes on the gate of the residence and damaged vehicles parked within the compound. Witnesses said several shots were fired, causing panic in the area.
Speaking in a video after the incident, Obi expressed concern about the state of the country’s democracy and security.
“This is where our democracy has reached. A former governor, and you can see what happened in front of his house, where hoodlums came shooting,” he said.
He added, “I assure you this cannot continue; we have a country, and we are a part of it. We cannot have terrorism and have officials in government terrorising the citizens.”
The incident reportedly occurred shortly after Obi, Odigie-Oyegun, and other political leaders attended the formal declaration of Barrister Olumide Akpata into the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Benin.
Akpata, who was the Labour Party governorship candidate in the 2024 Edo State election, recently defected to the ADC. The event attracted several political figures and supporters.
Sources said the group moved from the ADC secretariat to Odigie-Oyegun’s residence shortly after the ceremony. It was there that the gunmen reportedly opened fire.
The National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Yunusa Tanko, alleged that the attackers trailed the convoy from the party secretariat to the residence before launching the attack.
According to Tanko, the assailants shot at the gate and destroyed several official vehicles in what he described as a failed assassination attempt targeting the political leaders.
The attack has raised fresh concerns about political violence and insecurity in Nigeria. Over the years, the country has faced various security challenges, including kidnappings, banditry, and attacks on political figures.
Political gatherings, especially as the country moves closer to the 2027 general elections, have increasingly drawn attention from security agencies. Observers say tensions often rise as politicians realign and form new coalitions.
Obi, who was the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, remains an influential political figure. His campaign attracted strong support, especially among young Nigerians and urban voters.
Since the 2023 elections, Obi has continued to speak on national issues, including the economy, governance, and security. His involvement in recent political activities, including support for opposition coalitions, has kept him in the public eye.
As of the time of filing this report, security agencies have not released an official statement detailing arrests or confirming the identities of the attackers. However, political supporters and civil society groups have called for a thorough investigation.
Many Nigerians have taken to social media to condemn the attack, describing it as a threat to democracy. Some have urged the government to ensure the safety of political leaders, regardless of party affiliation.
Nigeria has experienced cases of political violence in the past, particularly during election seasons. Analysts say such incidents, if not properly addressed, could discourage participation in the democratic process.
Nigeria returned to democratic rule in 1999 after years of military government. Since then, the country has held several general elections, though concerns about electoral violence and irregularities have remained.
The recent attack in Edo State has renewed debate about the safety of politicians and the need for stronger security measures during political engagements.
Obi’s statement reflects wider concerns among opposition figures who say democratic space must be protected. He stressed that no Nigerian should live in fear because of political beliefs.
“We have a country, and we are a part of it,” Obi said, calling for an end to violence and intimidation.
At this stage, it remains unclear who carried out the attack and what their motive was. Some observers believe it could be linked to political tensions, while others urge caution until investigations are completed.
Edo State has in the past witnessed heated political contests. With new alliances forming ahead of the next election cycle, analysts warn that political actors must promote peace and avoid actions that could inflame tensions.
For now, Obi and other leaders present at the scene have confirmed they were not harmed during the attack. The damaged vehicles and bullet-marked gate serve as visible reminders of what could have been a tragic incident.