PRESS RELEASS
Abuja, Nigeria — The COPDEM Students Network has strongly condemned the recent violent attack on His Excellency, Peter Obi, and other stakeholders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Edo State.
The Network described the incident as alarming, noting that it occurred nearly seven months after controversial remarks attributed to the Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, who had publicly warned that Mr. Obi’s safety “would not be guaranteed” without prior security clearance before visiting the state.
According to COPDEM Students Network, the sequence of events is deeply troubling. “No Nigerian — regardless of political affiliation or status — should have to fear for their life while participating in lawful political activities or civic engagement,” the statement read. “Democracy thrives when citizens are free to speak, associate, and travel without intimidation or harm.”
The group recalled that in July 2025, a widely circulated video showed the Edo State governor cautioning that Mr. Obi’s security would not be assured if he visited without prior notice — comments that sparked widespread concern among citizens, civil society groups, and rights advocates across the country.
With reports now emerging of suspected armed attackers targeting the convoy of Mr. Obi and ADC members, the student body said it views the development as a serious threat to democratic participation and public safety, stressing that such incidents cannot be treated in isolation.
The COPDEM Students Network therefore called on:
• The Federal Government of Nigeria to recognize that the protection of citizens — especially those engaged in public service and political participation — is non-negotiable, and to ensure all necessary measures are taken to safeguard Mr. Obi and other Nigerians.
• The Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to launch a thorough, transparent, and impartial investigation into the attack and any related threats.
• The Department of State Services (DSS) and relevant intelligence units to review existing security protocols and mitigate potential risks to public figures and political stakeholders.
• All political actors to refrain from rhetoric capable of inflaming tensions, and to recommit to peaceful engagement and respect for fundamental rights.
The Network emphasized that political disagreement should never justify threats or violence. “The right to engage in politics, to travel, and to serve the public belongs to every Nigerian. When political space is constricted by fear, democracy itself is endangered,” the statement added.
COPDEM Students Network reaffirmed its commitment to the values of peace, respect, and democratic freedom, urging calm, lawful action, and accountability as the situation unfolds.
Signed:
Adamu Yusuf Gwary
National President
COPDEM Students Network
Edith Kalu
Vice President
COPDEM Students Network
