Police Launch Investigation Into Assassination Attempt On Peter Obi

Police Launch Investigation Into Assassination Attempt On Peter Obi, Others
One woman injured during stampede, no fatalities
Commissioner orders full investigation into incident

The Edo State Police Command has commenced a full investigation into an alleged attack on chieftains of the African Democratic Congress during a political gathering in Benin City.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the probe followed claims by Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, who alleged that Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, and some ADC leaders were attacked on Tuesday. Tanko made the allegation in a post on X, stating that the incident occurred at the residence of former Edo State governor, John Odigie-Oyegun.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Eno Ikodem, said suspected hoodlums infiltrated the venue at about 2:55 p.m., shortly after the event had ended and most dignitaries had departed.

“The hoodlums were said to have caused commotion, chased members away and threw the furniture at the venue upside down,” the statement read.

Ikodem said patrol teams responded to distress calls but the suspects fled before operatives arrived. She added that plastic chairs and canopies arranged outside the secretariat were vandalised.

The command confirmed that no casualties were recorded. However, one woman sustained injuries during the stampede that followed the disruption.

“No casualties were recorded. However, during the ensuing stampede, one woman sustained injuries not related to gunfire. She was promptly treated at a nearby chemist and has since been discharged,” the statement added.

Police also investigated reports of alleged gunshots around Odigie-Oyegun’s residence. Officers observed broken rear windscreens and damaged vehicle parts outside the compound, but no casualty was reported.