KEY POINTS

• ADC condemned alleged assassination attempt on Obi in Benin.
• Party linked the attack to prior warnings by Edo governor.
• Police confirmed disruption of the political gathering.

The African Democratic Congress has condemned what it described as an alleged assassination attempt on Peter Obi and other party leaders in Benin City, calling the incident a direct threat to Nigeria’s democracy.

In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party said attackers allegedly trailed Obi and other ADC members from the party’s secretariat to the residence of former Edo State Governor John Odigie-Oyegun before opening fire.

The ADC condemnation of alleged assassination attempt on Obi in Benin followed Tuesday’s violence, which police confirmed disrupted a political gathering and damaged property. No fatalities were reported.

ADC Condemnation of Alleged Assassination Attempt

Abdullahi described the development as “a grave and disturbing” escalation, linking it to remarks allegedly made last year by Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo warning Obi against visiting the state.

“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,” the statement said.

“We didn’t know at the time that the Governor’s threat would include an assassination plot,” it added. The party argued that violence and intimidation undermine democratic participation and weaken public confidence in the political process.

“Violence and intimidation are the weapons of those who fear the will of the people,” Abdullahi said. “Such actions stain our democracy and must be condemned by all who believe in freedom.”

Political Tensions Escalate in Edo

The ADC said it would not retreat despite the attack, pledging to continue what it called a peaceful struggle for political inclusion and opposition rights.

“The ADC will neither bow nor retreat. “We will stand firm, speak without fear, and continue the peaceful struggle to build a Nigeria where no one punishes the opposition and every citizen enjoys freedom,” the statement further said.

The ADC condemnation of alleged assassination attempt on Obi in Benin adds to rising political tension in Edo State, where rival parties have traded accusations following the incident. Police authorities have said investigations are ongoing.