“A Grave and Disturbing Development” — African Democratic Congress Condemns Attack on Peter Obi in Edo

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has denounced the attack on Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), and several party leaders in Benin City.

Yunusa Tanko, national coordinator of the Obidient Movement, said in a post on X that the incident occurred on Tuesday at the residence of John Odigie-Oyegun, a senior figure in the ADC. According to him, Obi and other party officials were attacked shortly after returning from the ADC secretariat, where Olumide Akpata, the 2023 Labour Party governorship candidate in Edo, was formally received into the party.

In a separate statement, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC’s national publicity secretary, described the incident as a serious threat to democratic practice, warning that it undermines political freedom and civic participation.

Abdullahi also referenced remarks reportedly made in July 2025 by Monday Okpebholo, governor of Edo State, cautioning Obi against visiting the state without prior notice. The ADC spokesperson alleged that the earlier warning contributed to a climate of hostility.

He added that violence and intimidation have no place in a democratic society and called on political actors to respect the rights of opposition figures.

The ADC said it would continue its activities, reaffirming its commitment to lawful political engagement nationwide.