Assassination Attempt on Nigerian Lawmaker Foiled by Security Personnel
Federal lawmaker Henry Okojie, representing the Esan North-East/Esan South-East Federal Constituency in Edo State, Nigeria, has been the target of a brazen assassination attempt. Armed men, suspected to be political thugs, reportedly launched the attack on Friday evening at Okojie’s residence. However, thanks to the swift intervention of security personnel attached to the lawmaker, the would-be assassins were unable to carry out their nefarious plan.
According to Okojie’s media aide, Michael Ihaza, the gunmen, disguised as police officers, invaded the lawmaker’s residence claiming to be on an appointment. They proceeded to the seating room, but were halted by the security personnel who responded promptly to the disturbance. Two of the armed thugs fled the scene, leaving behind the driver and another accomplice, who are currently being questioned by officers from the Nigeria Police Force’s Area Command in Uromi.
The suspects have made confessional statements, revealing that they were sent on the mission by People’s Democratic Party (PDP) leaders in Esan North East Local Government Area. However, efforts to obtain further comments from the Edo State Police Command were unsuccessful.
The attempted assassination serves as a stark reminder of the political tensions and threats that lawmakers in Nigeria continue to face. This brazen attempt on the life of a sitting federal lawmaker will no doubt spark concerns about the safety and security of those in public office, particularly in a country known for its turbulent political climate.
As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen whether those responsible will face justice, and whether measures will be taken to strengthen security for lawmakers and their families in Nigeria.
