A recent shooting incident in Benin City, Edo State, involving members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has ignited a fierce exchange of accusations and strong condemnations from various political quarters. The incident, which reportedly occurred at the residence of former Edo State Governor John Odigie-Oyegun, has brought to the forefront renewed concerns about political violence and security in Nigeria.

Following the attack, the ADC swiftly issued a statement claiming that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) was responsible for the shooting. The party further characterized the alleged actions of the APC as "acts of terrorism," a claim that has been met with severe backlash from the ruling party.

The APC, through its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, vehemently denied any involvement in the incident. Morka slammed the ADC, labeling the party as its own nemesis and suggesting it needs no external help to achieve its political demise. He described the ADC's allegations as "utterly delusional," "baseless," and "senseless," particularly for accusing the APC before any investigation had been carried out by law enforcement. According to Morka, this shows the ADC as a party lacking focus and without regard for due process, declaring itself "the accuser, investigator, prosecutor, and judge in its own cause." The APC spokesperson also criticized the ADC's characterization of the incident as "acts of terrorism," calling it reckless and unjustifiable, indicative of a "confused bunch, desperate to whip up sentiments and curry public sympathy at all costs."

While condemning violence of any kind in the political space, the APC called on police and other law enforcement authorities to conduct an expeditious investigation and bring perpetrators to justice. Interestingly, the APC suggested that the investigation should begin with a thorough scrutiny of the ADC, its leaders, and members, positing them as "prime suspects." The ruling party argued that the ADC, described as a "party of leaders without members," is plagued by internal leadership and "cult-like supremacy struggles," pointing to widely reported violent clashes among its factional leaders. Morka asserted that the APC was too preoccupied with its recent electoral victories in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) municipal elections and the Rivers and Kano states constituency elections to focus on what it termed an "inconsequential meeting of ADC political wanderers in Edo state."

Presidential hopeful Peter Obi, who was reportedly present during the attack, commended Nigerians for their solidarity and expressed deep gratitude for their prayers and support. Obi particularly appreciated the support extended to the families of Chief John Oyegun and Professor Oserheimen Osunbor. Reflecting on past experiences with lawlessness in Anambra, Obi emphasized that the growing insecurity across the country calls for men and women of goodwill to step forward. He reiterated the importance of electing leaders defined by competence, commitment, character, and compassion to build a peaceful, secure, and prosperous Nigeria.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also decried the assault on Obi, describing it as "utterly condemnable and unacceptable in any democracy." Atiku pointed fingers at the APC, alleging that the ruling party's inflammatory rhetoric has fostered a toxic environment that legitimizes violence against opposition voices. He urged President Bola Tinubu and the country’s security chiefs to take immediate action to guarantee the safety of opposition leaders and supporters, stressing that their protection is a "democratic obligation." Atiku warned against Nigeria descending into a "theatre where politics is settled by violence" and called for swift government action to stem the tide of violence and ensure justice for those responsible.