The Edo Chapter of the Obidient Movement has frowned at the reported violent attack on the Labour Party Presidential candidate in 2023, Peter Obi, at a political gathering in Benin on Tuesday.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that other chieftains of the African Democratic Congress, including a former Edo Governor, Chief John Oyegun-Odigie, were also allegedly attacked by yet-to-be identified armed men.
In a statement issued in Benin and made available to newsmen in Benin, the State Coordinator of the movement, Asemota Igiogbe, described the incident as a threat to democratic freedom.
Igiogbe alleged that armed hoodlums disrupted a peaceful ceremony held at the Edo ADC Secretariat on Ogbelaka Street, off Sapele Road, organised to receive new members, including the former Edo Governorship Candidate, Olumide Akpata, and his running mate, Asamah Kadiri.
He stated that the ceremony, which “is lawful and peaceful”, was thrown into confusion, following the reported invasion by gun-wielding men.
“What should have been a democratic exercise was instead turned into a theatre of violence and intimidation,” he stated.
Igiogbe further alleged that the disturbance extended beyond the venue of the gathering to Oyegun-Odigie’s private residence.
He described the development as “deeply troubling”.
According to him, the attack represents more than political confrontation.
He warned that violence targeted at opposition figures could weaken democratic participation and civic confidence.
“This attack is not only against Peter Obi and other political leaders present.
“It is an attack on democracy itself and the right of citizens to freely assemble and participate in political activities,” the statement added.
It called on security agencies to conduct thorough investigation into the incident and ensure that those responsible were brought to justice.
It also stressed the need to guarantee safety for political leaders and supporters, regardless of affiliation.
Reaffirming the commitment of the group to peaceful engagement, Igiogbe urged government authorities to protect democratic space in Edo and prevent further escalation of politically-related violence in the state.
