The Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested a man allegedly linked to the recent attack on former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi in Benin City, the Edo State capital.
Obi, alongside former Edo State governor John Oyegun and several chieftains of the All Democratic Congress (ADC), was attacked on February 24 by armed men who reportedly fired gunshots shortly after a party meeting in the state.
Following the incident, a man identified as Udeme Monday Stephen was accused of posting on his X account, @stevetom788, allegedly threatening further attacks on Obi.
The violence reportedly occurred after party leaders returned from the ADC secretariat, where they formally received former Labour Party governorship candidate Olumide Akpata into the party.
Obi, ADC React
Condemning the attack, Obi vowed to pursue formal action.
“We will make a formal complaint, and I assure you that this cannot continue,” he told party members in Benin City.
“We have a country, and we are part of the country. We cannot have terrorism terrorising the country and have officials in government terrorising citizens. It is unacceptable,” he added.
The ADC leadership also denounced the violence, insisting the party would not be intimidated.
“Let it be clearly understood: violence and intimidation are the weapons of those who fear the will of the people. Such actions stain our democracy and must be condemned by all who believe in freedom,” the party’s spokesman, Bolaji Abdullahi, said in a statement.
Governor Reacts
Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo condemned the attack, describing it as an internal party dispute that escalated beyond control.
While expressing sympathy for those affected, he criticised what he described as the alleged importation of thugs and miscreants under the guise of political activities.
“As peace-loving people, the importation of thugs and miscreants from outside the state under the guise of party politics remains totally condemned and will not be tolerated going forward,” he said.
What You Should Know
The DSS has arrested a suspect in connection with the February 24 attack on Peter Obi and other ADC leaders in Benin City.
The incident reportedly followed a party meeting and the defection of Olumide Akpata to the ADC.
Political leaders have condemned the violence, with authorities pledging that those responsible will face consequences.
