Nigeria’s security operatives have arrested a 26-year-old suspect over threats and alleged involvement in the recent attack targeting former presidential candidate Peter Obi.
The incident occurred on February 24 in Benin City, where Obi was attending a political meeting alongside former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), John Oyegun, and members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Armed men reportedly opened fire at the gathering, forcing attendees to flee and narrowly averting casualties.
In the aftermath, a social media user identified as Udeme Monday Stephen claimed responsibility for the attack via his account on X.
In a series of posts, he boasted that Obi had been “fortunate” to survive the Benin incident and issued fresh threats ahead of the politician’s anticipated visit to Rivers State.
Security sources disclosed that immediately after the online threats surfaced, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) initiated a covert operation. Using digital forensic techniques, investigators reportedly traced the posts to the suspect.
According to intelligence findings cited by counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama, the suspect works as a teacher at Jessica High School in Eliozu, within Obio-Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State.
Authorities say he has since been taken into custody and is undergoing further investigation.
A senior security official emphasized that the DSS acted on credible intelligence and moved swiftly to neutralize any potential threat.
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The agency, tasked with counter-espionage and VIP protection among other responsibilities, reaffirmed its commitment to responding decisively to threats against public figures, regardless of political affiliations.
The suspect remains in custody as investigations continue.