DSS Arrests Social Media User Over Threats to Peter Obi Following Alleged Attack in Edo

By Emmanuel Kwada 

The Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested a suspect identified as Udeme Monday Stephen (also reported as Udeme Sunday Stephen or Udeme Stephen), a 26-year-old teacher, in connection with threats made against Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, shortly after an alleged attack on him and others in Benin City, Edo State.

The incident stems from events on February 24, 2026, when armed assailants reportedly opened fire near the African Democratic Congress (ADC) secretariat on Ogbelaka Street and later at the residence of former Edo State Governor and ADC chieftain, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, in Benin.

Peter Obi was present during the visit, along with other party leaders. No fatalities were reported, though accounts describe gunshots, damaged vehicles, and injuries, including one claim that a relative of Labour Party’s 2024 Edo governorship candidate, Olumide Akpata, had his head smashed with a bottle during the chaos.

Yunusa Tanko, national coordinator of the Obidient Movement, confirmed the attack occurred at Odigie-Oyegun’s residence after a meeting, describing it as a premeditated assault on opposition figures.

Akpata also recounted receiving intelligence of an impending disruption, leading the group to relocate, only to face further violence.

Shortly after the incident, the suspect allegedly posted on his X account (@stevetom788), claiming responsibility for the attack and issuing explicit threats against Peter Obi. In one reported post, he stated that Obi was “lucky” to have survived in Benin and warned of further action, including during a potential visit to Rivers State.

Messages included phrases such as “We warned Obi against his entrance into Edo State” and vows that future targets would not be missed, alongside calls wishing harm to Obi.

A top security source indicated that DSS operatives acted swiftly upon identifying the credible threats. Using forensic analysis and intelligence, they tracked and arrested Stephen in a covert operation. He is currently in custody and expected to face charges soon.

The DSS emphasized its commitment to investigating threats against VIPs and public figures, regardless of background, as part of its mandate for counter-espionage and asset protection.

The arrest has drawn attention amid ongoing political tensions in Edo State and nationally, with supporters of Obi and the ADC calling for thorough probes into the original attack, while some quarters have dismissed claims of assassination attempts as exaggerated or politically motivated. The Edo State Government and other parties have previously denied involvement or complicity in the February incident.

Investigations are ongoing, and authorities have urged calm as the matter proceeds.