The Department of State Services (DSS) has taken into custody a 26-year-old school teacher identified as Udeme over his alleged connection to online threats and the February 24 shooting scare involving Peter Obi and other opposition figures in Benin City.
Security sources say the arrest represents a significant development in the investigation into the incident, which occurred shortly after Obi’s political visit to the state and has continued to generate political discussion as the country gradually approaches the 2027 general elections.
According to reports, DSS operatives began tracking the suspect after he allegedly published threatening statements on his social media account, claiming involvement in the attack and issuing further warnings. Investigators reportedly relied on digital forensic methods to trace the origin of the posts before carrying out a covert operation that led to his arrest.
Authorities confirmed that the suspect remains in DSS custody and is expected to face prosecution after investigations are concluded.
The shooting incident took place shortly after Obi, alongside former Edo State governor and former national chairman of the All Progressives Congress, John Odigie-Oyegun, and leaders of the African Democratic Congress, attended a political meeting in the city.
Reports indicate that unidentified gunmen allegedly trailed the convoy from the party’s secretariat before opening fire near Odigie-Oyegun’s residence located in the Government Reserved Area (GRA). The attackers reportedly fired several shots at the gate, vehicles, and parts of the compound before fleeing when security operatives responded. No casualties were recorded.
Supporters of Obi, including members of the Obidient Movement, described the incident as a planned attack and raised concerns over security gaps. However, the Edo State Government denied any involvement and dismissed the allegations as politically motivated.
The Nigeria Police Force had earlier confirmed receiving distress calls and deploying personnel to the area, noting that investigations were ongoing.
Security agencies say the probe is still open as authorities continue efforts to determine whether additional suspects were involved in the Benin gunfire incident.
