Tension gripped Benin City on Tuesday after gunmen reportedly attacked a convoy conveying leaders of the African Democratic Congress during a political gathering in the state.
The leaders had assembled for the formal declaration of Olumide Akpata into the party ahead of the political season in Edo State.
According to the National Coordinator of the Obedient Movement, Dr Yunusa Tanko, the delegation departed the ADC Secretariat in high spirits before noticing suspicious vehicles trailing their convoy.
He explained that what initially appeared to be a minor concern quickly escalated into a dangerous situation as the convoy approached the residence of elder statesman, Chief John Odigie Oyegun.
Tanko alleged that armed men opened fire at the gate of the residence and damaged several vehicles in the process, forcing members of the delegation to flee for safety.
Also present at the event was the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, who was said to have escaped unhurt as the attackers reportedly shot indiscriminately.
Despite the intensity of the incident, Tanko confirmed that no casualties were recorded.
He described the development as deeply troubling and reflective of rising political tension in the state, adding that the leaders remained resolute in their commitment to democratic engagement.
Tanko disclosed in a statement via his verified handle:
“Breaking Red Alert in Benin, Edo State. PO and the leadership of the ADC are under siege and attack. Armed individuals followed us from the ADC Secretariat to the residence of Chief John Odigie-Oyegun. They shot at the gate and destroyed several vehicles in what appears to be a surviving assassination attempt on our lives. Democracy is in danger.”
