By Adesakin Adefemi
The Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested a 26-year-old teacher, Udeme, over his alleged link to threats and the February 24 gunfire incident involving former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and other opposition figures in Benin City, Edo State.
The move marks the first solid breakthrough since the tense shooting scare that followed Obi’s visit to Benin, an episode that has continued to stir political debate as the country edges towards the 2027 election season.
Confirming the development on Monday, a top security source told Vanguard, “Yes, it is true.” The DSS had swung into action shortly after Udeme allegedly posted threatening messages on his X handle, claiming responsibility for the attack and issuing fresh threats.
In one of the posts cited by investigators, Udeme wrote: “We warned Obi against his entrance into Edo State, but he mistook our resolve for his Obidiots online noise. Thank his stars he (Obi) survived this one. “I learnt he’s going to my Rivers State. Na my men go handle that one and dem no dey miss target. Speak no peace to a bastard and wish him no long life, for he’s destined to die.”
Sources said forensic analysis helped track Udeme, who was later arrested in a covert operation. He remains in DSS custody and is expected to be charged in court. A top source disclosed: “I strongly believe that the outcome of the agency’s forensic investigations implicated the suspect.”
The February 24 incident occurred shortly after Obi, former Edo State governor and ex-APC national chairman John Odigie-Oyegun, and leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), attended a political meeting in Benin. Armed men opened fire near Oyegun’s GRA residence after trailing the convoy from the ADC secretariat on Ogbelaka Street.
The attackers riddled the gate, vehicles, and parts of the compound before fleeing when security personnel responded. No casualties were recorded. Obi’s allies and leaders of the Obidient Movement described the episode as a premeditated assassination attempt and criticised security lapses.
The Edo State Government rejected the claim and dismissed suggestions of official involvement as politically motivated. The Police earlier confirmed receiving distress calls and reinforcing security in the area, noting that investigations were ongoing.
Udeme’s arrest has sparked reactions from various quarters, with some calling for a thorough investigation into the incident. The DSS has not released further details about the suspect or the investigation.
The incident has raised concerns about security and the safety of politicians in the country. As the 2027 election season approaches, tensions are expected to rise, and security agencies are on high alert.
The DSS is expected to continue its investigation and bring those responsible for the attack to justice. The outcome of the investigation is eagerly awaited by the public.
