A political storm has erupted in Edo State following reports of an alleged assassination attempt on former presidential candidate Peter Obi and former Edo State governor, John Odigie-Oyegun.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Governor Monday Okpebholo have since engaged in a heated exchange of accusations, with claims ranging from political intimidation to attempts to tarnish the state’s image.
Alleged Attack on Obi’s Convoy
The incident reportedly occurred during Obi’s recent visit to the state. Sources said unidentified gunmen allegedly intercepted his convoy. Security personnel were said to have repelled the attackers, allowing Obi and other party members to escape unharmed.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC described the attack as a “coordinated hit.” The party alleged that the gunmen trailed Obi and other ADC members from the party’s secretariat to the residence of Odigie-Oyegun before opening fire.
“Today’s attack on Mr. Peter Obi and other leaders of the African Democratic Congress is a grave and disturbing development, especially in light of the threats issued last year by the Governor of Edo State, warning Mr. Obi not to come to Edo State,” the statement read.
The party further alleged that it did not anticipate that the earlier warning would escalate into what it termed an assassination plot.
Describing the development as a stain on Nigeria’s democracy, the ADC warned that violence and intimidation threaten the will of the people and must be condemned by all advocates of democratic governance.
Governor Fires Back
Governor Okpebholo, however, strongly condemned the attack while distancing himself and his administration from any wrongdoing. In a statement, he expressed sympathy for those affected and described the incident as unfortunate.
The governor suggested that certain individuals may have exploited the state’s peaceful environment to foment unrest.
“As peace-loving citizens, we categorically condemn and will not tolerate the importation of thugs and miscreants from outside the state under the guise of political activity,” he stated.
Okpebholo, who serves as the state’s Chief Security Officer, vowed not to allow Edo to become a battleground for political rivalry. He argued that the alleged attack may have been intended to discredit the state and undermine its reputation as one of Nigeria’s most peaceful regions.
“While the precise motive behind this attack remains unclear, I strongly believe its primary aim is to discredit Edo State,” he said.
He also maintained that no form of political blackmail would weaken the support of Edo residents for his administration, stressing that governance should centre on performance, public engagement and sustained efforts to earn citizens’ trust.
The governor welcomed constructive opposition but warned against what he described as self-inflicted attacks and unfounded external accusations. He suggested that the crisis appeared to stem from internal disagreements within the ADC.
As tensions continue to mount, observers say the incident underscores the fragile nature of political competition and the urgent need for restraint ahead of future electoral contests.