Benin City, Edo State — Former presidential candidate Peter Obi narrowly escaped an apparent assassination attempt on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, when armed men opened fire on supporters and leaders during a political event in Benin City, the state capital.
The violent incident occurred during the formal defection ceremony of politician Olumide Akpata into the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC) — a move regarded as significant in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.
According to a statement by Obidient Movement National Coordinator Yunusa Tanko, the attack unfolded after the group left the ADC Secretariat in Benin City for the residence of former APC National Chairman Chief John Odigie-Oyegun.
Tanko said that a convoy of armed individuals followed them and opened fire, targeting the gate of the residence and damaging several vehicles. He described the assault as a “survived assassination attempt” on Obi and other leaders present at the rally.
Watch the video of Peter Obi speaking on the incident below:
In a statement titled “Breaking Red Alert in Benin, Edo State,” Tanko warned that Obi — widely known by his supporters as PO — and other ADC leaders were “under siege and attack” and called the violence a danger to Nigeria’s democracy.
While details on casualties or arrests remain unclear, residents reported hearing gunshots and seeing party members flee for safety when the violence erupted. Security agencies have not yet issued an official response or confirmed whether suspects have been detained.
The attack highlights rising political tensions in Edo State, which has seen occasional outbreaks of violence tied to high-stakes political contests.
