A senior leader of the African Democratic Congress, Kenneth Okonkwo, has accused the Federal Government or its agents of involvement in what he described as an assassination attempt on former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi following a shooting incident in Edo State.
The incident occurred on February 24, 2026, in Benin City during political engagements involving Obi and ADC officials.
A convoy conveying Obi and other opposition figures was reportedly trailed before gunmen opened fire near a private residence, damaging several vehicles. No deaths or injuries were confirmed.
Obi was in Edo State for political discussions and activities connected to the formal induction of former president of the African Democratic Congress, Olumide Akpata, into the party.
Also present were ADC officials, including former Edo State governor and party chairman John Odigie-Oyegun.
Addressing the shooting during an appearance on Arise Television’s Prime Time program, Okonkwo characterized the attack as deliberate and politically motivated.
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“The attack on Peter Obi in Edo State was an attempt to eliminate him,” he stated. “It was not accidental.”
He argued that the incident reflected a broader effort to intimidate opposition figures and weaken Nigeria’s democratic pluralism.
Okonkwo also referenced a July 2025 video in which Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo reportedly warned that Obi’s security in the state could not be guaranteed without prior notification to state authorities.
The Edo State Government rejected claims of official involvement, stating that no directive had been issued to target members of any political party and affirming its constitutional responsibility to protect residents and visitors. The government described allegations of complicity as unfounded.
Political stakeholders have called for an independent and transparent investigation to establish the facts surrounding the incident and address broader security concerns for public figures.
The episode has intensified political debate and renewed discussions about safeguarding Nigeria’s democratic space and the safety of political participation.