Nigeria: Peter Obi escapes attack at ADC secretariat

By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria

Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, narrowly escaped an attack at the African Democratic Congress (ADC) secretariat in Benin City, Edo State. The incident occurred on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, when suspected thugs, reportedly arrived in an unmarked Sienna Bus and a motorbike, opened fire, and destroyed property at the secretariat.

The attack happened shortly after Obi, along with other dignitaries, including Olumide Akpata, the LP Edo 2024 governorship candidate, and ADC National Leader, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, had concluded a meeting at the secretariat. Several party members were injured, and property, including chairs, canopies, and banners, were damaged.

The attackers also targeted Odigie-Oyegun’s residence, where several vehicles were damaged. The ADC chairman, Kennedy Odion, alleged that the attackers were members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), but the APC denied the allegation, attributing the incident to internal conflicts within the ADC.

The Edo State Police Command confirmed the incident, stating that personnel responded swiftly to the distress call, and security had been reinforced around the premises. The police also assured that investigations were ongoing to arrest the perpetrators.

Reacting to the incident, Obi said it was time for those in government to act, warning that the country’s leaders were playing with fire. Odigie-Oyegun expressed concern that the attack could lead to chaos, questioning the government’s ability to protect citizens.