CATEGORY: Politics
There was tension in Benin City, Edo State, on Tuesday after gunmen allegedly opened fire in the vicinity of former Anambra State governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and his supporters.
The incident reportedly occurred during political activities linked to the defection of former governorship candidate, Olumide Akpata, to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Benin City.
According to a statement circulated by Obi’s supporters, armed men allegedly trailed the former presidential candidate and other ADC leaders from the party’s secretariat to the residence of former national chairman of the All Progressives Congress, John Odigie-Oyegun. The statement claimed that shots were fired at the gate of the residence, with some vehicles reportedly damaged in the process.
Supporters described the development as an apparent assassination attempt, heightening concerns over political tensions and security in Edo State.
As of the time of filing this report, security agencies had yet to issue an official statement confirming the alleged attack or providing details on arrests, injuries, or casualties.
The development comes amid heightened political activities in the state. Recently, Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, had stated that high-profile political figures are expected to notify relevant authorities ahead of visits to ensure adequate security coordination.
It remains unclear whether any formal security arrangements were made ahead of Tuesday’s visit, as political stakeholders continue to react to the incident.
Further updates are expected as investigations unfold.
