Obi breaks silence on Edo attack, says lawlessness not new to him

Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has said that the recent attack on opposition leaders in Edo State reflects a pattern of lawlessness he has experienced over the years.

Obi made the remarks in a statement on Tuesday while reacting to the attack on himself, former governor and ex-national chairman of the APC John Odigie-Oyegun, and other chieftains of the African Democratic Congress in Benin City.

The incident occurred during activities marking the formal defection of Olumide Akpata into the ADC, when gunmen reportedly trailed the delegation from the party secretariat to Odigie-Oyegun’s residence and opened fire, damaging vehicles and the entrance gate.

Obi expressed appreciation to Nigerians at home and abroad who reached out to him after the incident, describing their support as encouraging.

“I am deeply grateful to Nigerians across the world for their prayers, calls and solidarity following the incident in Benin,” he said.

He also acknowledged the support shown to Odigie-Oyegun and former Edo State governor Oserheimen Osunbor, noting that the outpouring of concern strengthened his faith in the country’s collective aspiration for a better future.

The former Anambra governor said experiences of insecurity and disorder were not new to him, recalling that widespread violence in Anambra State years ago influenced his decision to contest for the governorship.

According to him, the current security challenges across Nigeria demand the commitment of citizens determined to defend democratic values and national unity.

The attack was first disclosed by Obi’s former campaign spokesman and National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, Dr Yunusa Tanko, who alleged that armed men followed the ADC leaders and fired shots at Odigie-Oyegun’s residence in what he described as a suspected assassination attempt.

Images circulated after the incident showed vehicles with shattered windscreens and bullet marks on the gate of the residence, raising fresh concerns about rising political tensions in Edo State ahead of future elections.

Earlier concerns had also been raised following remarks by Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, who in 2025 said Obi should notify the state government before visiting for security reasons.

However, the Edo State Government denied any involvement in the incident, describing allegations of a politically motivated attack as false and unfounded. Officials also suggested that internal disagreements within the ADC may have contributed to tensions around the meeting venue.

Obi urged Nigerians to remain committed to democratic participation, stressing the need to elect leaders with competence and integrity.

He said Nigerians must act with courage and unity to build a peaceful and secure country.

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