The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned the alleged assassination attempt on Peter Obi and other party leaders in Benin City, describing the incident as a serious threat to Nigeria’s democracy.
In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party said the attackers allegedly followed Obi and members of the ADC from the party’s secretariat to the residence of a party leader, John Odigie-Oyegun, before opening fire.
Reacting to the incident, the ADC said the attack represented “a grave and disturbing development” for the country’s democratic process.
Today’s attack on Mr. Peter Obi and other leaders of the African Democratic Congress is a grave and disturbing development, especially in light of the threats issued last year by the Governor of Edo State, warning Mr. Obi not to come to Edo State,” the statement said.
The party added: “We didn’t know at the time that the Governor’s threat would include an assassination plot.”
The ADC described the incident as a stain on Nigeria’s democracy, warning that violence and intimidation undermine the will of the people.
“Let it be clearly understood: violence and intimidation are the weapons of those who fear the will of the people. Such actions stain our democracy and must be condemned by all who believe in freedom,” the statement said.
The party further declared that it would not be deterred by the attack.
“The ADC will neither bow nor retreat. We will stand firm, speak without fear, and continue the peaceful struggle for a Nigeria where the opposition is not punished, and every citizen is free,” it added.
