Obi Survives Benin Attack, Warns of Growing Lawlessness

The former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi, has issued a formal response following the violent attack on the African Democratic Congress (ADC) secretariat in Benin, Edo State.

Describing the incident as a “troubling reflection of the growing lawlessness across the country,” Obi called for national solidarity and a renewed commitment to democratic order.

The attack, which occurred on Tuesday, disrupted party activities and has reignited concerns regarding political violence and the safety of opposition spaces ahead of forthcoming electoral cycles.

The incident in Benin has drawn sharp condemnation from a broad spectrum of political stakeholders and civil society organizations.

Observers have warned that such acts of aggression undermine the fundamental tenets of democratic engagement and create an environment of intimidation.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Obi expressed his profound gratitude to Nigerians both at home and in the diaspora for their “prayers, calls, and messages of support” in the wake of the disturbance.

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Beyond the immediate political implications, Obi extended special appreciation to those who showed empathy toward the families of prominent Edo State figures, including former Governor Chief John Odigie-Oyegun and former Governor Professor Oserheimen Osunbor.

He noted that the current climate of insecurity necessitates a collective sense of unity and shared humanity. “Your support has strengthened my faith in our shared humanity and our collective hope for a better Nigeria,” the statement read, highlighting the need for a cohesive social fabric in the face of rising criminality.

Reflecting on his own political trajectory, the former Governor of Anambra State drew parallels between the current national situation and the conditions that initially motivated his entry into public service.

Obi recalled that the prevailing insecurity in Anambra years ago was the primary catalyst for his decision to contest for the governorship.

He maintained that the most basic responsibility of leadership is to guarantee the safety, stability, and dignity of the citizenry a standard he suggests is currently under threat across various regions of the federation.

Obi’s remarks also touched upon the necessity of active civic participation as a remedy for poor governance. He warned that the current wave of lawlessness cannot be resolved through apathy, stressing that democracy requires the involvement of principled individuals.

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Citing the classical philosopher Plato, he remarked that “the price good people pay for refusing to participate in government is to live under the rule of bad people.”

 

This call to action was directed at Nigerians who may feel disillusioned by the recurring cycle of political violence and institutional failure.

The former presidential candidate urged the electorate to remain steadfast in their demand for a new brand of leadership defined by “competence, character, commitment, and compassion.”

He argued that the persistent security challenges facing the country are symptomatic of a leadership model that prioritizes the pursuit of power for personal gain over service to the people. By focusing on character-led governance, Obi believes Nigeria can begin the process of restoring order and rebuilding public trust in state institutions.

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As Edo State prepares for future political contests, the attack on the ADC secretariat serves as a stark reminder of the volatility that often characterizes regional politics.

Security agencies have been urged by various civil rights groups to investigate the breach and ensure that those responsible are held accountable to prevent a culture of impunity.

The disruption at the ADC office is seen by many as an attempt to stifle political pluralism in a state that has historically been a flashpoint for intense partisan competition.

In his concluding remarks, Obi reaffirmed his commitment to national service and the pursuit of a peaceful, prosperous country.

He maintained that while the challenges are significant, they are not insurmountable if Nigerians exercise courage and unity.

The statement underscores a growing concern among opposition figures that without significant reforms to the security architecture and a reduction in political thuggery, the integrity of the democratic process remains at risk.

The response to the Benin incident highlights the intersection of political competition and national security. As the country moves toward another era of political transition, the calls for “order and rebuilding” resonate with a populace increasingly concerned about the physical safety of the political environment.

Stakeholders continue to monitor the situation in Edo, seeking assurances that the right to association and the safety of party administrative hubs will be protected by the relevant authorities.