Rising political tensions and reports of an alleged attack on high-profile political figures in Edo State have sparked renewed concerns about the safety of democratic actors and the growing climate of hostility in Nigeria’s political space. Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has condemned the incident and urged security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation.
The alleged attack reportedly targeted former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi and former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, John Odigie-Oyegun, during political activities in Edo. Photos and videos circulating on social media showed damaged vehicles and reports of gunfire, though authorities have yet to confirm full details.
Akpoti-Uduaghan described the development as a threat to democratic stability and warned against political intolerance. She stressed that violence and intimidation have no place in Nigeria’s democratic process and called for accountability. Her statement reflects broader concerns about the need for political actors and supporters to exercise restraint as electoral realignments intensify ahead of future contests.
The senator’s intervention underscores a key democratic principle: political competition must be grounded in ideas and dialogue, not aggression. Security agencies are expected to clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident as public debate continues over political civility and institutional safeguards.