Sowore Is Not Alone: 5 Top Nigerian Politicians Attacked in 2026
The reported attack on African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore in Ekiti State has added to a growing list of Nigerian politicians who have faced attacks, intimidation or violence during political activities in 2026.
With the 2027 general elections approaching, several prominent political figures have encountered hostile crowds, suspected political thugs and armed attackers while attending party activities or travelling across the country.
From former presidential candidates to sitting governors and former ministers, here are five prominent Nigerian politicians who have faced attacks this year.
1. Peter Obi and John Odigie-Oyegun
Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and former Edo State governor John Odigie-Oyegun were among political leaders reportedly attacked in Benin City on February 24.
The incident occurred during the formal reception of former Edo governorship candidate Olumide Akpata into the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
According to reports, suspected hoodlums disrupted the party gathering before following the politicians to Odigie-Oyegun’s residence.
The attackers reportedly opened fire, damaging vehicles and the former governor’s gate.
Obi later confirmed the incident, describing it as unacceptable. The Edo State Police Command also confirmed receiving distress calls over the disruption and damage at the locations.
However, the police said no casualties were recorded at the residence.
2. Rotimi Amaechi
Former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi also faced an attack in Rivers State on March 6.
Suspected gunmen reportedly attacked his convoy as he travelled to Ubima community in Ikwerre Local Government Area to complete his registration as a member of the ADC.
Witnesses reported hearing gunshots as the former Rivers State governor approached the registration venue.
Security operatives accompanying him reportedly engaged the attackers, who later fled.
Despite the incident, Amaechi completed his registration exercise and called for the prosecution of those responsible.
3. Ademola Adeleke
Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke was reportedly targeted on August 19 when suspected hoodlums opened fire on his convoy in Osogbo.
The incident occurred after the governor visited the palace of the Ataoja of Osogbo, Jimoh Oyetunji, to present his certificate of return following his victory in the August 15 governorship election.
According to reports, the attackers opened fire on the governor’s convoy, triggering an exchange of gunfire with his security personnel.
Osun State Commissioner for Information Kolapo Alimi confirmed the incident, saying the governor’s security team repelled the attackers.
No casualty was reported.
4. Peter Obi
Obi faced another confrontation on September 8 while visiting Benue State.
The former Anambra governor was travelling along the Makurdi-Gboko road towards Yelwata when a group of youths reportedly blocked his convoy.
He was visiting the community to commiserate with residents affected by previous attacks.
Obi alleged that the youths were mobilised by a government official. However, the Benue State Government denied involvement.
The police confirmed the obstruction and said security personnel were providing protection to the politician.
5. Omoyele Sowore
Sowore became the latest prominent politician to encounter violence on October 30.
The 2027 AAC presidential candidate was reportedly attacked at a restaurant in Ado-Ekiti after attending a radio programme.
Videos of the incident circulated online, showing the confrontation and damage to property at the establishment.
Although reports initially described the incident as an abduction, the Ekiti State Police Command subsequently denied that Sowore was kidnapped.
Police spokesperson Sunday Abutu said officers rescued him following an altercation with some individuals at the restaurant. He added that Sowore sustained minor injuries and was receiving medical attention.
The police also announced an investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Political violence raises concerns ahead of 2027
The incidents have renewed concerns about the safety of politicians and their supporters as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Although the circumstances differ, attacks on political gatherings, convoy blockades and confrontations involving suspected political thugs raise questions about the ability of political actors to campaign and engage voters without intimidation.
With major political parties already preparing for the next election cycle, the responsibility lies with security agencies to investigate reported attacks and ensure that political disagreements do not degenerate into violence.