A political event in Benin City descended into chaos on Tuesday after gunmen opened fire near a gathering involving former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and former APC national chairman John Odigie‑Oyegun, raising fresh concerns about political safety in Edo State.
The incident occurred shortly after a rally at the African Democratic Congress (ADC) secretariat, where former Labour Party governorship candidate Olumide Akpata was formally received into the ADC. The event drew party leaders, supporters and members of the Obidient Movement
Gunmen Trail Convoy After Rally
According to accounts from attendees and aides, unidentified men in multiple Sienna vehicles arrived at the secretariat during the rally, prompting security concerns. As Obi and other leaders departed for Oyegun’s residence, the vehicles reportedly followed the convoy.
Once Obi’s vehicle entered the compound and the gate was shut, the attackers allegedly opened fire on vehicles still outside. Bullet marks were later seen on the gate and several cars.
Valentine Obienyem, Obi’s media aide, said security personnel returned fire, forcing the attackers to flee. No deaths were reported, though several individuals sustained injuries.
‘Democracy Is in Danger’ — Obidient Movement
Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, described the incident as a “survived assassination attempt,” saying multiple vehicles were damaged and the gate to Oyegun’s residence was struck repeatedly.
He warned that the attack underscored a deteriorating security climate around political activities.
Police Confirm Attack at ADC Secretariat, Silent on Convoy Shooting
Edo State Police spokesperson Eno Ikoedem confirmed that officers responded to a distress call around 2:55 p.m. after hoodlums invaded the ADC secretariat, disrupted the event and destroyed chairs and canopies. She said the attackers fled before police arrived and that no casualties were recorded.
However, the police statement did not address the reported gunfire at Oyegun’s residence or the alleged pursuit of the convoy.
Obi: ‘Citizens Cannot Be Terrorised’
In a video recorded at the scene, Obi pointed to bullet holes on Oyegun’s gate and damaged vehicles, calling the attack “unacceptable.”
He argued that no citizen should be subjected to violence for participating in political activities, adding that the incident reflected deeper governance and security failures.
A Tense Backdrop in Edo Politics
The attack comes months after Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo publicly warned Obi not to enter the state without notifying his administration, claiming a previous visit had triggered unrest.
The governor’s remarks at the time — including a statement that Obi’s “security will not be guaranteed” without clearance — have resurfaced in public debate following Tuesday’s incident.
What Happens Next
Authorities are expected to clarify:
- whether the convoy was directly targeted
- whether arrests have been made
- what security measures will be implemented around political gatherings
The incident has intensified scrutiny of political safety in Edo State ahead of future electoral activities, with analysts warning that even isolated breaches can erode public confidence in democratic participation.
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