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By Lawrence Agbo
Following the attack on Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, the former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, and some African Democratic Congress chieftains in Edo State, former presidential candidate Peter Obi stated that “experiences of lawlessness are not new to me.”
Obi explained that his decision to run for state governor was influenced by the violence and instability in Anambra years ago. I was convinced that the state’s government needed to rebuild public confidence, security, and order.
“Today, the growing lawlessness across our country calls upon all men and women of goodwill to step forward—not in fear but with a sense of responsibility,” Obi stated after considering the event.
“As Plato reminded us, the price good people pay for refusing to participate in government is to live under the rule of bad people,” Obi cited Plato.
Obi made these remarks in a statement released on Tuesday, commending Nigerians for their solidarity following the incident at the ADC office in Benin.
He said, “I am profoundly grateful to Nigerians from around the world for your prayers, calls, and solidarity following the incident at the ADC office in Benin yesterday.
“I especially appreciate your support during this difficult time for the family of the distinguished elder and former Governor of Edo State, Chief John Oyegun, who has served Nigeria honourably in various capacities, as well as for another former Governor, Professor Oserheimen Osunbor. Your support has strengthened my faith in our shared humanity and our collective hope for a better Nigeria.”
The attack happened on Tuesday when Olumide Akpata was formally declared a member of the ADC. Dr. Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide and former campaign spokesperson for Obi, claims that “Peter Obi and the ADC leadership are under siege and attack in Benin, Edo State.
“Armed people accompanied us from the ADC Secretariat to Chief John Odigie-Oyegun’s home when Olumide Akpata was formally declared a member of the African Democratic Congress.
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“They shot at the gate and destroyed several vehicles in what appears to be a survived assassination attempt on our lives. Democracy is in danger.”
Concerns regarding political tensions in the state were heightened by reports of bullet-riddled gates and damaged windscreens from many SUVs during the event. The attack came after Governor Okpebholo issued earlier warnings, saying in July 2025 that Obi would not be guaranteed security if he did not contact him before visiting Edo State.
The governor had stated that Obi’s earlier visit that month had caused a “resurgence of violence” and three fatalities, emphasising that the order was strictly security-related and not personal.
He further encourages Nigerians never to give up in electing a competent leader. “This moment urges Nigerians to be even more resolute in electing leaders defined by competence, commitment, character, and compassion—leaders who prioritise the nation above self and service above power.”
Obi underlined the strength of group action as he concluded his contemplation, adding, “Together, with courage and unity, we can build the peaceful, secure, and prosperous Nigeria our people deserve.”
However, Edo State Government rejected the claims that official targeted attacks were “false and malicious.”
“The Okpebholo administration is not, and will never be, in the business of attacking innocent Nigerians, regardless of their political affiliation.”
“No directive was at any time issued by the governor or any organ of the Edo State Government to target members of any political party. These allegations lack credible evidence and appear calculated to mislead the public and create unnecessary political tension,” in a statement sent to Governor Monday Okpebholo by the Chief Press Secretary.
According to the statement, the attack occurred as a faction of ADC led by former Senate Chief Whip Roland Owie was excluded from a meeting at Odigie-Oyegun’s home.
