CINCINNATI -- Cincinnati police charged a man with shooting and wounding a local activist across the street from City Hall on Wednesday.

The activist, Michael Bailey, also goes by the name General Kabaka Oba. Police said he was shot in the leg, arm and chest shortly after addressing the city council. He's in critical condition, police said.

Police said the suspect, Howard Beatty, has had a longstanding dispute with Bailey.

Beatty surrendered to police and was charged with felonious assault. Beatty's lawyer said his client acted in self-defense after Bailey threatened him.

Bailey had a restraining order to keep Beatty at least 500 feet away, police said. It's not clear why.

The Council was still in session when members heard the shots outside. The mayor then adjourned the meeting.