The Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested 26-year-old teacher Udeme Stephen for his alleged role in threats and the February 24 shooting incident targeting former Peter Obi and other opposition figures in Benin City, Edo State.
The arrest marks the first major breakthrough following the tense shooting scare that followed Obi’s visit to Benin, an event that has continued to spark political debate as Nigeria approaches the 2027 election season.
A top security source confirmed the development to Vanguard on Monday, saying, “Yes, it is true.”
According to reports, DSS operatives acted after Stephen allegedly posted threatening messages on his X account, in which he claimed responsibility for the attack and issued further threats. One post cited by investigators read:
“We warned Obi against his entrance into Edo State, but he mistook our resolve for his Obidiots online noise. Thank his stars he survived this one. I learnt he’s going to my Rivers State. Na my men go handle that one and dem no dey miss target. Speak no peace to a bastard and wish him no long life, for he’s destined to die.”
Sources said forensic analysis helped track the suspect, who was later apprehended in a covert operation. He remains in DSS custody and is expected to be charged in court.
A senior DSS source stated:
“The outcome of our forensic investigations implicated the suspect. As a responsible security agency charged with counter-espionage and VIP protection, we act on credible intelligence irrespective of tribe or religion. Operatives were swiftly deployed, and the man who threatened Peter Obi was nabbed and is in custody.”
The February 24 incident occurred shortly after Obi, former Edo State governor and ex-John Odigie-Oyegun, and leaders of the African Democratic Congress attended a political meeting in Benin. Armed men reportedly opened fire near Oyegun’s GRA residence after following the convoy from the ADC secretariat on Ogbelaka Street. The attackers riddled the gate, vehicles, and parts of the compound before fleeing when security personnel responded. No casualties were recorded.
Obi’s allies and leaders of the Obidient Movement condemned the episode as a premeditated assassination attempt, criticising security lapses, while the Edo State Government dismissed claims of official involvement as politically motivated.
The Police had earlier confirmed receiving distress calls, reinforcing security in the area, and conducting investigations. With Stephen now in custody, security agencies say the probe remains ongoing to determine whether others were involved in the Benin gunfire incident.