The Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has urged security agencies to launch a comprehensive investigation into the reported attack on former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, and former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, John Odigie-Oyegun, in Edo State.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Akpoti-Uduaghan described the incident as alarming and cautioned against the growing wave of political hostility across the country, which she said could undermine Nigeria’s democratic order.
The lawmaker condemned what she termed an assassination attempt on the political figures, stressing that violence and intimidation must not be allowed to shape the nation’s political environment.
Her remarks come amid heightened political activities and increasing concerns about the safety of opposition leaders and party stakeholders as alignments intensify ahead of future elections.
Although details surrounding the alleged attack remain unclear, the development has ignited fresh debate over political intolerance and the urgent need for restraint among political actors.
Akpoti-Uduaghan warned that democracy cannot thrive where aggression and threats are deployed against perceived opponents, noting that such conduct erodes constitutional governance.
She expressed particular concern over what she described as overzealous supporters who, in a bid to prove loyalty to political leaders, resort to acts of harassment or violence against rival figures.
According to her, such actions are dangerous, divisive, and counterproductive to national unity.
The senator maintained that democratic growth depends on healthy competition, freedom of expression, and respect for dissenting views, adding that opposition groups have a constitutional right to mobilise and carry out political activities without fear.
Calling for decisive action, she urged law enforcement agencies to thoroughly investigate the matter and ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to justice.
She emphasised that political disagreements should be resolved through dialogue and lawful electoral processes, not through violence.
Akpoti-Uduaghan reaffirmed her commitment to safeguarding democratic principles, upholding the rule of law, and protecting the rights and safety of all Nigerians irrespective of political affiliation.
Prompt News had earlier reported that Obi, Odigie-Oyegun and other leaders of the African Democratic Congress were allegedly attacked by suspected thugs in Benin, Edo State, during political activities linked to the formal declaration of Olumide Akpata into the party.
The National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, Dr Yunusa Tanko, had raised the alarm in a statement issued in Abuja, sharing images and videos showing vehicles with shattered windshields, while the entrance to Odigie-Oyegun’s residence was said to have sustained visible damage.