The Senator representing Kogi Central, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has strongly condemned the reported assassination attempt on former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, and former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), John Odigie-Oyegun, in Edo State.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the lawmaker described the development as “deeply disturbing” and warned against the growing culture of political hostility in the country.
“I strongly condemn the reported assassination attempt on former Governor Peter Obi and former National Chairman of the APC, John Odigie-Oyegun, in Edo State,” she stated.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan emphasized that violence, intimidation, and threats have no place in a democratic society, stressing that political competition must never degenerate into physical attacks on perceived opponents.
“This development is deeply disturbing and has no place in our democracy. Politics must never descend into violence, intimidation, or threats against perceived opponents,” she said.
The senator expressed particular concern over what she described as overzealous political actors who, in their attempt to demonstrate loyalty to political leaders, resort to harassment or aggression against opposition figures.
“I am particularly concerned about overzealous political actors who, in a bid to impress or demonstrate loyalty to Mr. President or any other leader, take it upon themselves to harass or attack members of the opposition. Such actions are reckless, counterproductive, and dangerous to our national unity,” she added.
She reiterated that democracy flourishes where there is healthy competition, free expression, and respect for dissenting voices.
“Democracy thrives on healthy competition, free expression, and the protection of dissenting voices. The opposition has every constitutional right to organise, mobilise, and carry out political activities without fear. Attempts to silence or endanger them undermine the very foundation of our democratic system,” she said.
Calling for swift action, the Kogi Central senator urged security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation and bring those responsible to justice.
“I call on security agencies to thoroughly investigate this incident and ensure that those responsible are held accountable. Nigeria must remain a nation where political differences are resolved through dialogue and the ballot, not through violence,” she stated.
She reaffirmed her commitment to upholding democratic principles and safeguarding the rights of all citizens, irrespective of political affiliation.
“As a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I remain committed to defending democratic principles, upholding the rule of law, and ensuring the safety of all Nigerians, regardless of political affiliation,” she said.
With the nation’s democratic integrity at stake, stakeholders across party lines are being urged to prioritise peace, civility and constitutional order over partisan rivalry.
Many Nigerians now look to security agencies to act decisively, not only to unravel the circumstances surrounding the alleged attempt but also to reinforce public confidence in the country’s commitment to safeguarding lives and democratic freedoms.
