Gûnmen Attàck Peter Obi and ADC Leaders in Benin City

Armed men reportedly opened fire on former presidential candidate Peter Obi and leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Benin City, Edo State, on Tuesday during events marking the formal defection of Olumide Akpata into the party.

Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, raised the alarm in a statement, revealing that Obi and ADC leaders came under gunfire shortly after leaving the ADC Secretariat. According to him, suspected assailants trailed the group to the residence of John Odigie-Oyegun, where they shot at the gate and damaged several vehicles.

Tanko described the incident as a “survived assassination attempt,” adding that Obi and the ADC leadership were “under siege and attack” during the event. He warned that the development poses a serious threat to Nigeria’s democracy.

Eyewitnesses said the gunfire caused panic, forcing party members and supporters to scramble for cover.

The attack occurred amid heightened political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections, reigniting concerns over security and political violence in the country.