The Department of State Services has arrested a man identified as Udeme Sunday Stephen in connection with the attack on former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Benin City, Edo State.
Security sources said the suspect was taken into custody following an investigation into the February 24 incident, which occurred during Obi’s visit to former Edo State governor, John Oyegun.
According to reports, the assailants, who were said to be armed, ambushed the convoy shortly after Obi and the ADC delegation left the party’s state secretariat. The attack forced them to seek safety inside a nearby residential estate.
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A video that later surfaced online showed damaged vehicles and the estate gate riddled with bullet marks. In the footage, Obi explained that the gunmen struck soon after their departure from the ADC office.
The arrest marks a major breakthrough in the case as authorities work to uncover the motive behind the assault and identify other individuals who may have been involved. Investigators are also examining whether the attack was politically motivated.
The DSS nabs suspect linked to attack on Peter Obi in Edo as part of ongoing efforts to ensure accountability and prevent further violence during political activities.
Meanwhile, residents and political stakeholders in Edo State have called on security agencies to intensify protection for political actors ahead of future engagements in the state.