Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has strongly condemned the recent attack on opposition figures in Edo State while reaffirming his determination to participate in the 2027 presidential election. Speaking during a visit to Peter University in Achina, Anambra State, Obi insisted that no individual or group has a monopoly on violence, emphasizing that intimidation would not deter him from pursuing his political ambitions.
The former Anambra State governor also addressed circulating threats warning him against visiting certain parts of the country, stating that as a Nigerian citizen he has the constitutional right to travel freely across the nation. Obi further reiterated his commitment to democratic principles, calling for free and fair elections in 2027 and stressing that Nigeria’s political environment must allow equal opportunity for all citizens.
Attack on Opposition Figures Sparks Concern
The controversy follows an incident last Tuesday in Benin City, the Edo State capital, where Obi and several members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) were reportedly attacked. Yunusa Tanko, the national coordinator of the Obidient Movement, disclosed that the incident occurred at the residence of John Odigie-Oyegun, a prominent ADC chieftain and former governor of Edo State.
According to Tanko, the gathering was disrupted by suspected political thugs, raising concerns about the safety of opposition figures and the increasing tension within the country’s political landscape. The incident quickly drew attention from political stakeholders, prompting calls for a thorough investigation and stronger measures to safeguard democratic activities.
Bolaji Abdullahi, the national publicity secretary of the ADC, described the attack as a “grave and disturbing development.” He warned that such acts pose a serious threat to Nigeria’s democracy, arguing that political competition must remain peaceful and within the bounds of the law.
Government Response and Ongoing Investigation
Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo condemned the attack, describing it as a spillover from internal political disputes that had escalated beyond control. The governor alleged that certain individuals imported thugs from outside the state to disrupt public order under the guise of political activities.
Authorities in Edo State have since launched an investigation into the incident. The state police command confirmed that security agencies are working to identify those responsible and ensure that those involved are brought to justice.
Observers say the incident highlights the growing tensions within Nigeria’s political environment as parties and political actors begin to position themselves ahead of the 2027 general election. Analysts have also noted that violence or intimidation during political engagements could undermine public confidence in the democratic process if not addressed promptly.
Obi Reaffirms 2027 Presidential Ambition
Despite the threats and recent attack, Obi stated clearly that he remains committed to contesting the 2027 presidential election under the platform of the African Democratic Congress. He emphasized that his political ambition is driven not by personal desire for power but by his determination to see Nigeria function effectively.
“I am not desperate to be the president of Nigeria, but I am desperate to see Nigeria work,” Obi said, adding that the country’s current challenges stem largely from greed among some of the nation’s wealthy elites. According to him, many individuals who already possess substantial wealth continue to seek more at the expense of national development.
He also called for an electoral process that allows fair competition, challenging those in power to conduct a transparent election. Obi argued that Nigeria must evolve into a nation where opportunity is accessible to all citizens regardless of background, noting that “the son of a nobody can become somebody without knowing anybody.”
The former governor also explained his departure from the Labour Party, attributing the decision to prolonged leadership disputes within the party. Obi claimed that despite favourable court judgments regarding the party’s leadership crisis, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) initially failed to recognise them, prompting his eventual move to the ADC
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