DSS arrests suspect behind attack on Peter Obi

Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have apprehended the alleged mastermind behind the recent attack on the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, in Benin, Edo State

Obi was in Benin alongside former Edo State Governor John Oyegun and other leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) when armed men reportedly opened fire during a political gathering. The incident caused panic, though Obi and members of his entourage escaped unharmed.

Moments after the attack, a social media user identified as Udeme Monday Stephen, using the handle @stevetom788 on X, claimed responsibility and issued fresh threats against Obi. In a series of posts, he warned that the former presidential candidate would not be fortunate next time.

“We warned Obi against his entrance into Edo State, but he mistook our resolve for his Obidiots online noise. Thank his stars he (Obi) 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.”

Security sources disclosed that DSS operatives immediately launched a discreet investigation, employing forensic tools to trace the suspect’s digital footprint. The operation reportedly led to the arrest of the 26-year-old, identified as Udeme Monday Stephen.

According to the source, Stephen is a teacher at Jessica High School in Eliozu, Rivers State, located in Umuehere Community, Obio-Akpor Local Government Area. “I strongly believe that the outcome of the agency’s forensic investigations implicated the suspect,” the source said.

Meanwhile, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has directed political appointees nursing ambitions for the 2027 general elections to step down from their positions.

In a statement dated February 28, 2026, and signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ikhilor, affected officials were instructed to resign no later than March 1, 2025. The directive, according to the government, is aimed at ensuring fairness, transparency, and neutrality within public institutions ahead of the elections.

“Public office holders are reminded that the responsibilities of governance must not be compromised by partisan political engagements.

“All affected officers are therefore advised to take immediate and necessary steps to comply with this directive within the stipulated timeline.”

Following the order, two appointees — Deputy Chief of Staff at the Government House, Pius Alile, and Edo State Audit Service member Terry Igiebor — have reportedly tendered their resignations to pursue political aspirations in 2027.

Follow Us on Facebook – @LadunLiadi; Instagram – @LadunLiadi; Twitter – @LadunLiadi; Youtube – @LadunLiadiTV for updates