The presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, has said the alleged attack on him and other leaders of the African Democratic Congress in Edo State will not deter him from his political ambitions, drawing a parallel between the incident and the violence that first pushed him into politics years ago in Anambra State.
In a statement posted on his official X handle on Wednesday, February 25, Obi said experiences of lawlessness were not new to him and that such challenges had historically strengthened rather than weakened his resolve.
“Experiences of lawlessness are not new to me. Years ago, the violence and insecurity in Anambra shaped my determination to seek the governorship of the state, convinced that leadership must restore order, security, and public trust,” Obi said.
“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,” he added.
Obi quoted the Greek philosopher Plato to reinforce his point, saying: “As Plato reminded us, the price good people pay for refusing to participate in government is to live under the rule of bad people.”
The statement, titled “Thank You, Nigerians,” was Obi’s first detailed response to the incident that occurred in Benin City on Tuesday, where armed individuals allegedly trailed him and other ADC leaders from the party’s secretariat to the residence of former Edo State Governor Chief John Odigie-Oyegun during political activities surrounding the formal declaration of lawyer Olumide Akpata as a member of the party.
Obi expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support he received from Nigerians following the incident.
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“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,” he said.
He expressed concern for the elder statesmen caught up in the violence.
“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,” Obi said.
“Your support has strengthened my faith in our shared humanity and our collective hope for a better Nigeria. My deep gratitude is reflected in my renewed commitment to serve and build our nation,” he added.
Obi used the occasion to urge Nigerians to be more intentional about the kind of leaders they elect in 2027.
“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,” he said.
“Together, with courage and unity, we can build the peaceful, secure, and prosperous Nigeria our people deserve. A new Nigeria is POssible,” Obi concluded.
Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo had earlier condemned the attack but suggested it was the result of internal disagreements within the ADC rather than an externally orchestrated assault.