Atiku condemns attack on Obi, Oyegun, others, warns against political violence

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has strongly condemned the reported attack on opposition leaders in Benin City, describing the incident as unacceptable in a democratic society.

The attack reportedly targeted prominent opposition figures including Peter Obi, John Odigie-Oyegun, Oserheimen Osunbor and Olumide Akpata during political activities involving the African Democratic Congress ahead of forthcoming elections.

Tension reportedly rose when leaders of the party gathered for Akpata’s formal declaration into the ADC when suspected gunmen opened fire near the residence of Odigie-Oyegun, damaging vehicles and forcing members of the delegation to flee. No casualties were recorded in the incident.

Reacting in a statement, Atiku described the attack as “utterly condemnable and unacceptable in any democracy,” warning that rising political hostility could trigger further violence.

According to him, the attack did not occur in isolation, noting that inflammatory political rhetoric could encourage violent actions against political opponents.

He accused elements within the All Progressives Congress in Edo State of engaging in rhetoric capable of legitimising violence against opposition figures.

The former vice president warned that Nigeria could be entering a dangerous phase where opposition voices face not only political pressure but also physical attacks.

He said political intolerance must not be allowed to escalate into open confrontation, stressing that democracy requires tolerance and respect for political differences.

Atiku also called on President Bola Tinubu and security agencies to ensure the protection of all citizens regardless of political affiliation.

He stressed that guaranteeing the safety of opposition leaders and their supporters is a constitutional responsibility and not a privilege.

The former vice president cautioned that political competition in Nigeria must not degenerate into violence, warning that the country must avoid a situation where political disputes are settled through force.