BENIN CITY, Edo State — The Department of State Services (DSS) has apprehended a 26-year-old teacher, identified as Udeme, in connection with the February 24 gunfire incident and subsequent threats directed at Peter Obi, the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party.
The arrest follows a high-stakes investigation into the security breach in Benin City, where gunmen reportedly opened fire during a visit by Obi and other prominent opposition figures.
The Investigation
According to security sources, Udeme was tracked down following digital forensic analysis of threats issued against opposition leaders. The DSS alleges that the suspect is linked to the coordination of the gunfire incident that caused panic during the political gathering late last month.
While Udeme’s primary occupation is listed as a teacher, investigators are looking into his possible ties to broader networks aimed at destabilizing the security situation in Edo State.
Security Breach in Benin
The incident on February 24 saw unidentified gunmen target a convoy and venue associated with Peter Obi and other Labour Party stalwarts. While no fatalities were reported from the immediate gunfire, the attack raised fresh alarms regarding the safety of opposition figures and the rising political tension in the region.
The DSS stated that the suspect was nabbed in a “sting operation” after his location was compromised through intelligence gathering. He is currently being interrogated at a DSS facility to identify other accomplices involved in the shooting.
Political Reaction
The Labour Party has called for a “thorough and transparent” prosecution, urging security agencies to ensure the masterminds behind the attack are brought to justice. Party officials emphasized that the arrest of a 26-year-old teacher should lead to the discovery of those who “funded and facilitated” the violence.
The suspect is expected to be charged in court once preliminary investigations are concluded.
