DSS nabs suspect over attack on Peter Obi in Edo

The Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested a 26-year-old teacher, Udeme Monday Stephen, over his alleged connection to threats and the February 24 gunfire incident involving former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, in Benin City, Edo State.

The arrest marks the first major breakthrough since the tense shooting episode that trailed Obi’s visit to the state — a development that has continued to generate political ripples as the 2027 election season gradually approaches.

A senior security source confirmed the arrest on Monday, simply stating, “Yes, it is true.”

According to findings, DSS operatives launched a covert operation after Stephen allegedly posted threatening messages on his X handle, claiming responsibility for the attack and issuing further threats. In one of the posts cited by investigators, the suspect warned that Obi “would not be lucky next time,” suggesting possible future action in Rivers State.

Security sources disclosed that digital forensic analysis played a critical role in tracing and apprehending the suspect. He is currently in DSS custody and is expected to be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations.

A top source said the agency acted on credible intelligence.

“As a responsible security organisation saddled with counter-espionage and VIP protection duties, the DSS is always alive to its responsibility of investigating credible intelligence, irrespective of tribe or religion. They swiftly deployed operatives and the man who threatened Peter Obi was nabbed and is in custody.”

The February 24 Shooting Scare

The incident occurred shortly after Obi, alongside former Edo State governor and ex-national chairman of the All Progressives Congress, John Odigie-Oyegun, and leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), attended a political meeting in Benin.

Armed men reportedly opened fire near Odigie-Oyegun’s residence in the Government Reserved Area (GRA) after allegedly trailing the convoy from the ADC secretariat on Ogbelaka Street. The attackers were said to have riddled the gate and parts of the compound before fleeing when security operatives responded. No casualties were recorded.

Obi’s allies and members of the Obidient Movement described the incident as a premeditated assassination attempt and criticised security lapses. However, the Edo State Government rejected the claim, dismissing suggestions of official complicity as politically motivated.

The Police had earlier confirmed receiving distress calls and reinforcing security in the area, noting that investigations were ongoing.

With the arrest of the suspect, security agencies say investigations remain open as efforts continue to determine whether other individuals were involved in the Benin gunfire incident.