In what appears to be an escalation of political tension ahead of the Edo State elections, an assassination attempt was made on Henry Okojie, a federal lawmaker representing Esan North-East/Esan South-East Federal Constituency.
Okojie, who is also the husband of popular Nollywood actress Mercy Johnson, was reportedly targeted by armed men suspected to be political thugs at his residence in Edo State.
According to a statement released by Okojie’s media aide, Michael Ihaza, the attack occurred when gunmen arrived at Okojie’s residence in a Lexus GX 470 with a Rivers State registration number—PHC 253 FF. The attackers, disguised as police officers, entered the premises, claiming to have an appointment with the lawmaker.
The situation took a dangerous turn when the gunmen made their way to the living room, but the swift response of security personnel attached to the lawmaker prevented the plot from succeeding. Ihaza confirmed the presence of security forces, stating that their intervention was crucial in thwarting the planned assassination.
“The armed thugs who disguised as police officers along with two others, invaded the residence of Hon. Okojie, claimed to be on appointment and proceeded to the seating room.
“Following the intervention of the security personnel attached to the lawmaker, two of the armed thugs fled leaving behind the driver and another who are currently being interrogated by officers from the Area Command of the Nigeria Police Force, Uromi.
“The suspects have so far made a confessional statement stating that they were sent on the mission by People’s Democratic Party (PDP) leaders in Esan North East Local Government Area,” the statement added.
