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

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 (VIDEO)