Nigeria’s Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested a suspect connected to the attack on former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and several political figures in Benin City, Edo State.

Security sources confirmed that the suspect, identified as Udeme Sunday Stephen, was apprehended following a covert investigation by the DSS after he allegedly threatened Obi on social media.

How the Attack on Peter Obi Happened

The incident occurred when Obi and other political leaders visited the residence of John Odigie-Oyegun, a senior figure in the African Democratic Congress.

The group had just returned from the party’s secretariat where they formally welcomed Olumide Akpata, the 2023 Labour Party governorship candidate in Edo, into the party.

According to Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, unknown assailants attacked the premises shortly after the meeting.

The attackers reportedly damaged vehicles and fired shots, causing panic among those present.

Despite the chaos, Obi and other party members escaped without injuries.

Suspect Allegedly Claimed Responsibility Online

Shortly after the incident, the suspect allegedly posted messages on the social media platform X claiming responsibility for the attack and threatening further violence against Obi.

In the posts, he reportedly warned the former presidential candidate not to visit other states, including Rivers State, claiming that more attacks could follow.

These threats prompted intelligence agencies to launch an immediate investigation.

DSS Investigation and Arrest

Security officials said the DSS deployed digital forensics and intelligence tracking to identify the suspect behind the online threats.

Investigations reportedly led operatives to Udeme Sunday Stephen, a 26-year-old teacher at a private secondary school in the Eliozu area of Obio-Akpor Local Government Area in Rivers State.

Authorities confirmed that he has been taken into custody and will soon be charged in court.

Security Concerns Around Political Violence

The attack has raised concerns about political violence and security for public figures ahead of future elections in Nigeria.

Security agencies say they remain committed to investigating credible threats and protecting political leaders and citizens across the country.