Veteran Nollywood actor and African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain Kenneth Okonkwo has alleged that the assassination attempt on Labour Party 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi was sponsored by the Edo State government or its agents.
The incident occurred on Tuesday when gunmen attacked Peter Obi along with other ADC chieftains in Edo State.
Speaking during an interview on Arise Television’s ‘Prime Time’, Okonkwo recalled a previous threat issued by incumbent Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo to Peter Obi against entering the state without his clearance.
“The attack on Peter Obi in Edo State was an attempted assassination by the government or their agents,” Okonkwo stated. “I was in touch with the former Edo State Governor, John Odigie Oyegun, who detailed on the alleged assassination attempt.”
Okonkwo attributed the incident to either government entities or their agents, noting that the current Edo State Governor had previously warned Peter Obi against entering the state without his clearance, stating his security would not be guaranteed.
“This past threat was discussed on air as a danger to opposition leaders. The recent events transpired as individuals gathered to welcome Olumide Akpata, former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), an organization now seemingly under attack,” he explained.
“The welcoming party encountered a convoy of ten vehicles, led by a pilot vehicle,” Okonkwo added, describing the circumstances surrounding the attack.
The allegations have sparked controversy and raised concerns about political violence and the safety of opposition figures in Nigeria.
