DSS Arrests Man Over Alleged Plot to Kill Peter Obi in Edo

Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have arrested a suspect in connection with the recent attack on the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, in Benin City, Edo State.

Security sources said the suspect, identified as 26-year-old Udeme Monday Stephen, was apprehended on Monday following investigations into threats made after the February 24 attack.

Peter Obi, alongside former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), John Odigie-Oyegun, and other members of the opposition All Democratic Congress (ADC), reportedly escaped unharmed when gunmen opened fire during a political meeting in Benin.

According to security sources, Stephen allegedly claimed responsibility for the attack in posts made on his social media account and threatened additional attacks on Obi.

Investigators were said to have launched a covert operation immediately after the online threats surfaced, using forensic analysis to trace and identify the suspect.

The suspect is reported to be a teacher at Jessica High School in Eliozu, Obio-Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State.

A security source said the DSS acted on credible intelligence and swiftly deployed operatives to arrest the suspect, who is currently in custody.

The source added that the suspect is expected to be charged in court following the conclusion of investigations.