The Civil Liberties Organization (CLO), Anambra State Branch, has condemned in the strongest terms the recent attempt on the lives of African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential hopeful and former Governor of Anambra, Mr. Peter Obi, former Governor of Edo State and former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief John Odigie Oyegun, Senator Oserheimen Osunbor, Barr. Olumide Akpata and other prominent individuals.

In a statement issued to newsmen in Awka on Wednesday, CLO described the incident that took place on Tuesday in Benin City, Edo State as “dastardly, barbaric, and insensate shootings”.

The statement reads: "We are appalled by the brazen attack on the ADC Secretariat, which left many party faithfuls wounded, and the subsequent trail of violence to Chief Oyegun’s residence, where several vehicles were riddled with bullets. This wanton disregard for human life is unacceptable, hallmark of man’s inhumanity against man and must be condemned by all well-meaning Nigerians.

“The CLO appeals to the perpetrators to remember that they will one day give an account of their actions to their creator. We also remind them that the Bible says, 'Thou shall not kill’ (Exodus 20:13), and as Suzanna Callings aptly put it, ‘Anyone who kills an innocent person will lose his life and everything he is and has’.

“We thank God for sparing the lives of His Excellencies, Obi, Oyegun, Osunbor, Akpata, and others who attended the event. We pray for the speedy recovery of those injured in the attack.

“The CLO calls on the Inspector General of Police and the Commissioner of Police, Edo State, to constitute an investigative panel comprising men and women of integrity to unravel the circumstances surrounding this heinous act, apprehend the perpetrators, and bring them to justice. We believe that this will help forestall future occurrences of such inhumane and barbaric acts.

“We reiterate that the dignity, sacredness, sanctity, respect, and preservation of human life and persons are sacrosanct and must be respected by all. We urge Nigerians to live in peace, harmony, and tranquility, and we assure the public that justice will be served.”

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