Peter Obi Escapes Assassination Attempt in Edo, Says ‘This Is Where Our Democracy Has Reached.
Nigeria’s political space was jolted on Tuesday after former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, reportedly escaped an assassination attempt in Benin City, Edo State.**
What Happened in Edo?
According to reports, gunmen attacked Obi’s convoy shortly after he attended the formal declaration of Olumide Akpata into the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Benin.
The attack allegedly occurred at the residence of former APC National Chairman, John Odigie-Oyegun, where political stakeholders had gathered.
Eyewitness videos circulating online show:
Bullet holes riddled across the estate gate
Damaged vehicles within the premises
Panic among political supporters
The National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Yunusa Tanko, claimed the attackers trailed the delegation from the ADC Secretariat before opening fire at the residence.
Obi Reacts: “This Cannot Continue”
In a video released after the incident, Obi expressed deep concern over the deteriorating state of security and democratic space in Nigeria.
“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.
I assure you this cannot continue; we have a country, and we are part of it. We cannot have terrorism and have officials in government terrorising the citizens.”
His remarks have since sparked widespread reactions across social media, with many Nigerians condemning the attack and calling for urgent investigations.
Political Tensions in Edo?
The incident reportedly happened just hours after Akpata’s official defection to the ADC. Political observers suggest the attack may be connected to rising political tensions ahead of future elections.
However, as of the time of filing this report, security agencies have yet to release an official statement detailing arrests or confirming the identities of the assailants.
Growing Concerns Over Political Violence in Nigeria
Nigeria has continued to witness politically linked violence, especially during election cycles and party realignments. The attack on Obi raises fresh questions about:
The safety of opposition leaders
The neutrality of security agencies
The state of Nigeria’s democracy
For many Nigerians, the big question remains: Are political actors now unsafe even outside campaign season?
Developing Story
This remains a developing story. Headlineswave.ng will continue to monitor updates from security agencies and political stakeholders
What’s your take on the rising wave of political violence? Share your thoughts in the comment section.
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