Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has declared that “experiences of lawlessness” are not new to him, following a violent attack at an event of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Benin, Edo State.
Obi made the remarks in a statement on Tuesday after gunmen reportedly opened fire during the formal declaration of Olumide Akpata into the ADC.
According to Obi’s former campaign spokesman and National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, Yunusa Tanko, armed individuals trailed Obi and other party leaders from the ADC Secretariat to the residence of former Edo State Governor and ex-APC National Chairman, John Odigie-Oyegun.
Tanko alleged that the attackers shot at the gate and vandalised vehicles in what he described as a “survived assassination attempt.”
Images and videos shared online showed bullet-riddled gates and shattered SUV windscreens, intensifying concerns over escalating political tensions in Edo State.
The incident also involved prominent figures, including former Edo State Governor Oserheimen Osunbor, who was reportedly present.
Reacting to the attack, Obi expressed gratitude to Nigerians at home and abroad who reached out in solidarity.
“I am profoundly grateful to Nigerians from around the world for your prayers, calls, and solidarity,” he said, describing the moment as difficult for the family of Chief Oyegun.
Reflecting on the broader implications, Obi noted that insecurity and political violence were factors that shaped his earlier resolve to contest for governorship in Anambra State.
“Experiences of lawlessness are not new to me,” he stated, warning that Nigeria’s growing insecurity demands courageous and responsible leadership.
Quoting the Greek philosopher Plato, Obi added: “The price good people pay for refusing to participate in government is to live under the rule of bad people.”
The attack comes months after Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, warned that Obi must notify him before visiting the state for security reasons.
The governor had previously linked an earlier Obi visit to a resurgence of violence, which reportedly led to three deaths.
However, the Edo State Government has firmly denied allegations of any targeted attack.
In a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, the administration described claims of official involvement as “false and malicious,” insisting that no directive was issued to target members of any political party.
The government further suggested that the incident coincided with internal disputes within the ADC, noting that a faction led by former Senate Chief Whip Roland Owie had reportedly been denied access to a meeting at Odigie-Oyegun’s residence.
Despite the violence, Obi urged Nigerians not to succumb to fear but to remain committed to democratic participation.
“This moment urges Nigerians to be even more resolute in electing leaders defined by competence, commitment, character, and compassion,” he said.
He concluded with a call for unity and collective action, stressing that Nigeria’s future depends on citizens choosing service over self-interest.
“Together, with courage and unity, we can build the peaceful, secure, and prosperous Nigeria our people deserve.”