DSS Arrests Suspect Linked to Gun Attack on Peter Obi and ADC Leaders in Benin City

 Nigeria's Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested a 26-year-old man in connection with the February 24 gun attack that targeted former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and several leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Benin City.

The suspect, identified as Udeme Sunday Stephen also reported in some sources as Udeme Monday Stephen, is believed to have links to the incident. Reports indicate he works as a teacher at Jessica High School in Eliozu, Rivers State. The DSS made the arrest following a detailed investigation into the shooting, which occurred during a political gathering.

The attack which took place on February 24 when armed men opened fire on a meeting involving Peter Obi, former All Progressives Congress national chairman Chief John Odigie-Oyegun (a former Edo State governor), and various ADC chieftains and members. The group narrowly escaped unharmed as bullets flew amid the chaos, with no fatalities reported from the incident itself, though it raised serious concerns about political violence in the region.

Shortly after the shooting, an individual using the X handle @stevetom788 allegedly tied to the suspect claimed responsibility online and issued additional threats against Peter Obi. This social media activity appears to have played a key role in the DSS's swift tracking and apprehension of the suspect.

Channels Television and other outlets reported that the DSS acted decisively after receiving credible leads, deploying operatives to locate and detain Stephen. The arrest is seen as an important step in addressing what some associates of Obi have described as a premeditated attempt on his life. Labour Party supporters and others have called the episode an attempted assassination, urging thorough prosecution to deter similar acts amid Nigeria's tense political climate.

Peter Obi, who has remained active in public discourse since his 2023 presidential run, was in Edo State for engagements that included a visit related to the ADC. The incident occurred at or near the residence or meeting point connected to Chief Odigie-Oyegun, heightening worries about safety during cross-party interactions or opposition activities.

The DSS has not released extensive details on the suspect's motives, potential accomplices, or whether more arrests are expected. Investigations continue, with authorities emphasizing their commitment to protecting citizens and maintaining law and order, especially in politically sensitive periods.

This development comes against a backdrop of ongoing concerns over political thuggery and insecurity in parts of Nigeria, where election-related tensions and opposition activities have occasionally led to clashes. No official statement has yet emerged from the Edo State government or police on the arrest, though earlier reports noted the state governor's administration distancing itself from any involvement or prior warnings related to Obi's visit.

Peter Obi's team and supporters have welcomed the arrest as progress toward justice, while calling for a full probe to uncover any broader networks or sponsors behind the attack. The incident has sparked renewed discussions on the need for better security arrangements for political figures and the protection of democratic spaces.