A coalition of civil society organisations in Edo State has rejected claims that former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi was shot at during last Tuesday’s political event in Benin City, describing the reports as exaggerated and misleading.
In a statement signed by Braimoh Idris, Convener, and Andrew Akhere, Co-Convener of the Coalition of Edo Civil Society Organization, said its independent investigation found no evidence to support allegations that Obi or former Edo State Governor, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, was the target of an assassination attempt.
Leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) had earlier alleged that their party secretariat and the residence of Chief Odigie-Oyegun were attacked by armed thugs during a political gathering in the state capital. Some reports also suggested that Obi narrowly escaped an assassination attempt.
However, the coalition disputed that narrative.
“It is false to claim that Peter Obi was shot at in Benin City. He and Chief Oyegun did not escape any assassination attempt,” the group stated.
According to the coalition, its fact-finding efforts included interviews with witnesses at the ADC secretariat, security personnel stationed at Odigie-Oyegun’s residence, and residents of the area.
The group said its findings indicated that the political meeting at the ADC secretariat had ended and all dignitaries, including journalists, had left before individuals described as thugs allegedly arrived at the location. It further maintained that no gunshots were fired at the secretariat.
On the reported attack at Odigie-Oyegun’s residence, the coalition stated that both Obi and the former Edo governor were inside the “fortified residence” at the time of the disturbance. Witnesses, it said, reported that stones were thrown at vehicles parked outside the premises, but no firearms were discharged.
The coalition also questioned the logic of the assassination narrative, noting that several vehicles at the residence were not affected and that both political figures were accompanied by police escorts.
“If there was an assassination attempt, what evidence is there of gunfire? How many bullets were expended by security operatives in response?” the group queried.
The coalition went further to allege that the incident may have been instigated to generate public sympathy, though it did not provide specific proof for the claim.
Calling for calm, the group urged political actors in Edo State to avoid actions capable of heightening tensions.
“We want peace in Edo State. Political parties should play by the rules and not create crisis where there are none,” the statement read.
