Abuja, Nigeria (24 February 2026) — Former presidential candidate Peter Obi narrowly escaped an apparent assassination attempt on Tuesday amid violent attacks targeting members of the Obidient Movement in Edo State, the group’s leadership has confirmed.
The National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, raised alarm over the incident, stating that unpredictable gunmen opened fire on supporters of Obi during his visit to the state. According to preliminary reports, the attack occurred as Obi was meeting with grassroots activists and sympathisers in the region — a key stronghold ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Violence Erupts During Political Engagement
Tanko said the thugs who allegedly trailed the former Labour Party (LP) flagbearer’s entourage opened fire on Obidient Movement members, injuring several people. The motive behind the attack remains unclear, but observers suggest the violence could be politically motivated given the tense climate in the run-up to next year’s polls.
“In a blatant attack on democracy and the right of Nigerians to freely associate and participate in political discourse, unknown assailants targeted peaceful supporters,” Tanko said in a brief statement. He added that Obi himself was unhurt and safely conveyed to a secure location by his security detail following the eruption of gunfire.
Officials confirmed that security agents have launched an investigation into the incident, with the Edo State Police Command promising a coordinated response to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.
The attack comes amid escalating political tensions nationwide. The Obidient Movement — a grassroots coalition that has mobilised youth and opposition supporters since 2023 — has been vocal in criticising electoral malpractice and advocating systemic reforms in Nigeria’s democratic processes.
In recent weeks, the group has been actively involved in protests and legal challenges over alleged irregularities in local council elections, including the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) polls, which it claims were marred by violence and intimidation. Those events have already placed considerable strain on the nation’s political environment.
Political analysts warn that the incident in Edo underscores the growing security risks associated with Nigeria’s intensely competitive pre-election period. Any attack on a major political figure or their supporters could have reverberating implications for political stability and public confidence ahead of the 2027 elections. Security sources say that national and state law enforcement units are coordinating efforts to prevent further escalation.
9News Nigeria will continue to provide updates as more verified information becomes available.
