The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned what it described as an alleged assassination attempt on former presidential candidate Peter Obi and other party leaders in Benin City, Edo State, and said the party will not retreat from its political objectives.

The statement was issued on Wednesday by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi.

The incident reportedly occurred on Tuesday in Benin City, shortly after Obi and other ADC leaders attended an event welcoming Olumide Akpata into the party.

According to reports, armed individuals allegedly followed the group from the ADC Secretariat to the residence of a senior party leader before gunfire was heard.

The ADC said the development represents a serious concern for the democratic process in Nigeria.

National political leaders and party representatives have on multiple occasions stressed the importance of peaceful political participation ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In its statement, the ADC said the attackers allegedly followed Obi and other party leaders from the party’s secretariat to the residence of Chief John Odigie-Oyegun before opening fire.

The party described the development as a “grave and disturbing” incident for the nation’s democracy.

The party criticised the incident in light of what it said were earlier warnings reportedly issued against Obi. It said that comments made previously did not suggest that threats would escalate to an alleged assassination attempt.

The ADC described acts of violence and intimidation as harmful to democratic values and said such actions undermine the will of the people. It reaffirmed its position on peaceful political engagement.

In the statement, the ADC said, “Today’s attack on Mr. Peter Obi and other leaders of the African Democratic Congress is a grave and disturbing development, especially in light of the threats issued last year by the Governor of Edo State, warning Mr. Obi not to come to Edo State.”

The party added, “Let it be clearly understood: violence and intimidation are the weapons of those who fear the will of the people. Such actions stain our democracy and must be condemned by all who believe in freedom.”

It also stated, “The ADC will neither bow nor retreat. We will stand firm, speak without fear, and continue the peaceful struggle for a Nigeria where the opposition is not punished, and every citizen is free.”

The ADC’s condemnation adds to national discourse on political violence and security ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Reports of the incident have drawn responses from political figures and civil society groups advocating peaceful political engagement.

Public safety and the protection of political actors are aspects of ongoing national discussions on democratic governance, political participation, and electoral integrity.