The Neo Africana Centre (NAC) has alleged that the recent armed attack on Peter Obi in Benin City was a calculated move, calling for an urgent and transparent investigation into the incident.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Dr. Amanze Obi, the Centre said it was shocked by the attack, which reportedly occurred last Tuesday when suspected gunmen targeted Obi’s convoy. The incident took place in front of the residence of former Edo State governor, John Odigie-Oyegun, after Obi and other leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) attended an official function at the party’s secretariat in Benin City.
Describing the development as disturbing, NAC said the attack raises serious concerns about political intolerance and security in Edo State. The group linked the incident to earlier remarks allegedly made by the state governor, Monday Okpebholo, who had in July 2025 warned Obi against entering the state without security clearance.
The Centre argued that such a directive was inconsistent with constitutional provisions guaranteeing freedom of movement and association. It further recalled that during Obi’s July 7, 2025 visit to Benin City, he donated N15 million to St. Philomena Hospital School of Nursing Sciences. According to NAC, the governor later associated a violent episode that occurred days after Obi’s departure with the former Anambra State governor, an allegation the Centre said lacked substantiation.
NAC expressed concern that the latest attack may not be unrelated to the earlier political tensions, describing it as suggestive of hostility and intolerance. It warned that the incident sends a troubling message as the country inches toward the 2027 general elections.
The think tank urged security agencies to carry out a comprehensive investigation, identify those responsible, and make their findings public. It stressed that all political actors, regardless of affiliation, must be guaranteed safety and equal protection under the law.
“The safety of opposition figures and all citizens must be assured. A democratic environment cannot thrive where intimidation and violence are allowed to fester,” the statement said.
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