Peter Obi Thanks Nigerians For Support After Edo State Attack

Presidential hopeful, Peter Obi, has commended Nigerians for their solidarity over a recent attempt on his life by hoodlums in Benin City, Edo State.

Obi made the comment on X on Wednesday following an attack on him and other members of African Democratic Congress (ADC).

He expressed gratitude to Nigerians for their prayers, calls, and solidarity following the incident

He stated, “I especially appreciate your support during this difficult time for the family of the distinguished elder and former Governor of Edo State, Chief John Oyegun, who has served Nigeria honourably in various capacities, as well as for another former Governor, Professor Oserheimen Osunbor.

“Your support has strengthened my faith in our shared humanity and our collective hope for a better Nigeria. My deep gratitude is reflected in my renewed commitment to serve and build our nation.

“Experiences of lawlessness are not new to me. Years ago, the violence and insecurity in Anambra shaped my determination to seek the governorship of the state, convinced that leadership must restore order, security, and public trust.

“Today, the growing lawlessness across our country calls upon all men and women of goodwill to step forward—not in fear but with a sense of responsibility. As Plato reminded us, the price good people pay for refusing to participate in government is to live under the rule of bad people.

“This moment urges Nigerians to be even more resolute in electing leaders defined by competence, commitment, character, and compassion—leaders who prioritise the nation above self and service above power.

“Together, with courage and unity, we can build the peaceful, secure, and prosperous Nigeria our people deserve.”

Atiku Decries Attack, Points Finger at APC

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar decried the assault on Obi, describing it as “utterly condemnable and unacceptable in any democracy”.

In a statement, Atiku pointed fingers at the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), alleging that the party’s inflammatory rhetoric has created a toxic environment that legitimises violence against opposition voices.

“The ruling APC appears to have escalated its intolerance from bureaucratic suppression to open aggression,” Atiku stated.

He called on President Bola Tinubu and the country’s security chiefs to take immediate action to guarantee the safety of opposition leaders and supporters, stressing that their protection is a “democratic obligation”, not a favour.

“Nigeria must not descend into a theatre where politics is settled by violence,” Atiku warned, urging the government to act swiftly to stem the tide of violence and ensure that those responsible for the attack are brought to justice. 

Chuks Okocha, Adedayo Akinwale, Sunday Aborisade, David-Chyddy Eleke and Felix Omoh-Asun