Edo Govt Tried To Assassinate Peter Obi – Kenneth Okonkwo
A member of the National Working Committee of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Kenneth Okonkwo, has accused the Edo State government of attempting to assassinate former presidential candidate Peter Obi, describing the incident as a “genocide against political opponents.”
Speaking on Arise TV on Wednesday, Okonkwo said he obtained first-hand details from ADC State Chairman and former Edo State Governor, Chief John Odigie Oyegun.
He said, “Well, let me first of all say that I was in touch with His Excellency Chief John Odigie Oyegun. And he narrated to me what happened…so it’s no longer allegedly, it happened.”
Okonkwo alleged that the attack was orchestrated by government agents. “The attack on Peter Obi in Edo State was an attempted assassination by the government or their agents,” he said, adding that Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo had warned Obi not to enter the state without clearance, saying his security would not be guaranteed.
He also linked the attack to a planned event with notable attendees, including former Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) president Olumide Apata.
According to Okonkwo, the convoy involved included 10 vehicles, led by a pilot vehicle, and the attackers chased the party members from the event venue to Oyegun’s residence, vandalising the gate and vehicles.
“So this was an assassination attempt. This is genocide against political opponents,” Okonkwo said, adding that the move was part of a broader attempt by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to eliminate opposition parties.
“Having failed to wipe out all political parties, their only choice now is to target opposition leaders.”
The Edo State Police Command confirmed that unrest occurred during an ADC event at the party secretariat in Benin City on Tuesday.
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According to Police Public Relations Officer ASP Eno Ikoedem, the disturbance happened around 2:55pm, shortly after the official conclusion of the event, when most dignitaries had left.
“The hoodlums caused commotion, chased members away and threw furniture upside down,” ASP Ikoedem said.
Police patrols were deployed, prompting the attackers to flee. No deaths were recorded, though one woman was injured in the stampede.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
