NDC Alleges Attack On Peter Obi’s Convoy In Calabar, Demands Arrest Of Perpetrators

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has condemned an alleged attack on the convoy of its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, in Calabar, Cross River State, calling on security agencies to investigate the incident and prosecute those responsible.

The party described the incident as an unacceptable threat to democratic participation, insisting that political campaigns must not expose candidates and their supporters to violence or intimidation.

In a statement signed by the spokesperson of the NDC National Presidential Campaign Council, Dr Chiogo Constance Ikokwu, the party disclosed that no member of Obi’s delegation was injured during the attack, although one of the vehicles in the convoy was reportedly ambushed.

The NDC also alleged that the incident was similar to an earlier occurrence in Benue State, where Obi’s convoy reportedly encountered a roadblock mounted by a mob along the Makurdi-Gboko Federal Highway, near the Nigerian Air Force Base in Makurdi.

The party claimed that the roadblock appeared to have been deliberately organised to obstruct the presidential candidate’s movement.

Condemning the incidents, the NDC maintained that every Nigerian had the constitutional right to campaign, associate and participate in political activities without fear of intimidation or physical attacks.

It called on the Cross River State Government and relevant security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation, identify those involved and ensure they are brought to justice.

The party further warned authorities against actions or inaction that could create the impression of tolerance or complicity in political violence, arguing that failure to hold perpetrators accountable could encourage further attacks.

Reaffirming its commitment to the democratic process, the NDC said the alleged incidents would not deter the party or its presidential candidate from pursuing their political activities.

“Let it be clearly understood: NDC will not be intimidated, silenced or deterred by violence,” the statement declared.

The party also cautioned against attempts to undermine democratic competition through threats and intimidation, insisting that political power should be determined by the will of the electorate rather than violence.

Describing the forthcoming election as crucial to Nigeria’s democratic future, the NDC urged political stakeholders, government authorities and security agencies to protect the rights of candidates and citizens throughout the electoral process.

The party maintained that safeguarding political participation and ensuring accountability for electoral-related violence were essential to preserving public confidence in Nigeria’s democracy.