The Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested a 26-year-old man over an alleged online threat directed at former Anambra governor and Labour Party figure Peter Obi, following last week’s attack in Benin, Edo State.
The arrest comes days after reports emerged that Peter Obi, John Odigie-Oyegun, Peter Tanko and other political figures of the ADC (African Democratic Party) were attacked during a visit to the residence of the party chieftain in the Edo State capital, John Odigie-Oyegun. Accounts from associates described a chaotic scene, with at least one person reportedly injured.
In the aftermath of the incident, a social media user identified as Udeme Stephen allegedly posted messages claiming responsibility for the disruption and warning of further violence should Obi visit other states.
The post, shared on X (formerly Twitter), quickly drew attention and sparked concerns over escalating political tensions online.
“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”, the tweet had read.
According to a security source contacted by ENigeria Newspaper, DSS operatives launched a covert investigation using digital forensic tools to trace the origin of the account. The suspect was reportedly tracked to Rivers State, where he works as a teacher in Obio-Akpor Local Government Area.
Security officials told ENigeria Newspaper that the agency moved swiftly once credible intelligence linked the online threats to a specific individual. The suspect is currently in custody and is expected to be charged in court.
The DSS has not issued a formal public statement detailing the charges, but sources within the security community say the investigation forms part of broader efforts to address threats against public office holders and political actors.
