Former presidential candidate Peter Obi and other leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) were targeted in an armed attack on their convoy in Benin City, Edo State, on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, as political tensions rise ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to reports, unidentified gunmen opened fire on Obi’s convoy as it was entering the residence of former John Odigie‑Oyegun, a senior ADC figure, after a rally at the party secretariat. Vehicles in the convoy were damaged and bullets were fired at the gate of the property, but Obi and others escaped unharmed.
The Obidient Movement and ADC supporters described the incident as a possible assassination attempt, saying armed men trailed the convoy from the rally site before opening fire near Odigie-Oyegun’s residence. Witnesses reported bullet-riddled vehicles and significant damage from the gunfire.
Security forces reportedly responded to the distress call, driving the assailants away, and the Edo State Police Command confirmed the attack while stating that investigations are ongoing to track down those responsible. No deaths were officially recorded, although some people sustained injuries.
The incident has prompted calls from lawmakers for the Acting Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, to launch a swift and transparent investigation into the attack, with critics arguing that such violence poses a threat to democratic processes and political engagement in Nigeria.
Obi later spoke publicly about the ordeal, thanking supporters for their concern and emphasising the need for peace and security as the country moves closer to the election season.
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