Peter Obi Survives Shooting in Edo as Armed Men Target ADC Leaders (VIDEO)

Former 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi on Tuesday reportedly escaped what supporters described as an assassination attempt in Edo State, after unidentified gunmen attacked a political gathering in Benin City involving leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

The incident, which has heightened political tension in Edo State, occurred shortly after the formal declaration of former governorship candidate Olumide Akpata into the ADC. Party members and supporters had earlier gathered at the ADC secretariat before proceeding to the residence of former Edo State governor John Odigie-Oyegun, where the shooting was reported.

Eyewitnesses said the gunmen allegedly trailed the convoy from the ADC secretariat and opened fire near the residence, shooting at the gate and damaging several vehicles parked within the premises. Videos circulating on social media showed bullet-riddled cars and panicked supporters fleeing the scene. The attack reportedly involved members of the Obidient Movement — a political support group aligned with Obi — who were present during the gathering.

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Despite the gunfire, Peter Obi escaped unharmed, alongside other ADC chieftains. However, some individuals were reportedly injured and taken to hospital, although the number and severity of casualties have not been officially confirmed.

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Yunusa Tanko, interim National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, confirmed the attack. He wrote that Obi and ADC leaders were “under siege and attack” in Benin, alleging that armed individuals followed them from the ADC secretariat to Chief Odigie-Oyegun’s residence and opened fire. Tanko described the incident as a “survived assassination attempt,” warning that “democracy is in danger.”

As of press time, the Edo State Police Command had not issued an official statement confirming arrests or identifying those responsible. However, police officers were reportedly seen at the scene shortly after the shooting, and investigations are believed to be ongoing.

The Benin attack on Peter Obi comes weeks after reported vandalism at the ADC secretariat in Edo, further escalating concerns over political violence in Nigeria ahead of future elections. Political stakeholders have since called for calm, urging security agencies to strengthen protection for political actors and supporters while ensuring accountability for those behind the attack.

More updates are expected as authorities release official findings.

Peter Obi Survives Shooting in Edo as Armed Men Target ADC Leaders

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Peter Obi Survives Shooting in Edo as Armed Men Target ADC Leaders (VIDEO)

ADC Leadership Clash: Oyegun Bars Owie from Caucus Meeting in Edo

A power struggle has erupted within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as two top leaders – John Odigie Oyegun and Roland Owie – clashed over who holds the legitimate authority to convene a party caucus meeting in Edo State.

The confrontation occurred on Monday at Oyegun’s Government Reserved Area (GRA) residence, where he barred Owie and his supporters from attending the meeting. Eyewitnesses reported that suspected thugs blocked Owie’s camp at the gate, preventing entry and escalating tensions.

In response to the standoff, police officers were deployed to maintain order and prevent violence, though efforts to obtain official comments from either faction were unsuccessful as of press time.

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Political analysts say the incident underscores internal friction within the ADC, which is seeking to consolidate power ahead of the 2027 general elections. The caucus meeting was intended to discuss strategic plans and organisational matters for the party’s Edo State chapter, but the leadership dispute threatened to disrupt proceedings.

Observers warn that factionalism and leadership tussles could undermine the party’s unity and strategy as it positions itself as a strong opposition force following the defection of several high-profile politicians, including supporters of Peter Obi, into the ADC last year.

The clash highlights the challenges faced by emerging opposition parties in managing internal governance, authority disputes, and cohesion, particularly as Nigeria prepares for the next round of elections.

ADC Leadership Clash: Oyegun Bars Owie from Caucus Meeting in Edo

2027: Bashir Ahmad Rules Out Kwankwaso as Peter Obi’s Running Mate

Former aide to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, Bashir Ahmad, has dismissed speculation that ex-Kano Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso could serve as vice presidential candidate to ex-Anambra Governor Peter Obi in the 2027 presidential election.

Ahmad made the remark in a post on X on Monday, emphasizing that expectations of a Kwankwaso-Obi joint ticket are politically unrealistic.

Some supporters of the 2023 presidential candidates have been advocating for a joint ticket in 2027, claiming it could present a strong opposition alliance. In February, pro-Kwankwaso groups led by Abba Sadauki Gwale argued that a collaboration between Obi and Kwankwaso could be a “chance to rescue the nation from its current challenges.”

Earlier, on February 12, Dr. Alex Chukwuemeka Obiechina, a former governorship candidate in Enugu State, said that a Kwankwaso-Obi alliance would pose a significant threat to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.

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Reacting to these calls, Ahmad stressed that Kwankwaso is unlikely to accept a deputy role, noting that the senator:

• Commands a long-standing political structure
• Possesses a well-defined political base
• Leads a consistent and active political movement

He added that if such a partnership were ever to occur, the only politically viable arrangement would be for Obi to serve as deputy to Kwankwaso, not the other way around.

Ahmad’s statement underscores the complex dynamics of coalition-building in Nigerian politics, where party structures, regional influence, and historical political networks play decisive roles in determining electoral alliances. Analysts note that the discussion reflects early positioning and strategic calculations ahead of the 2027 elections, as parties and politicians seek broad national appeal while balancing zoning and regional considerations.

2027: Bashir Ahmad Rules Out Kwankwaso as Peter Obi’s Running Mate