NEWS
Peter Obi Condemns Attack on NDC Supporters in Enugu, Warns Against Anarchy as One Death Is Reportedly Recorded
The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has condemned the reported attack on party supporters in Enugu State, warning that political violence and lawlessness could have devastating consequences for everyone, regardless of political affiliation or position.
Obi expressed his displeasure following an incident at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu on Saturday, where NDC supporters were reportedly attacked while gathering to welcome the party’s governorship candidate, Chinyeaka Ohaa.
In a video shared on X, the former Anambra State governor also revealed that some of his scheduled engagements in different states had been cancelled after the individuals who invited him allegedly received threats.
The development has raised fresh concerns about the safety of political supporters and the atmosphere surrounding political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Reacting to the incident, Obi disclosed that the reported attack had allegedly resulted in the death of one person, while cautioning political leaders and those in positions of authority against allowing violence to become part of the political process.
“The unfortunate incident that happened today in Enugu State, where NDC supporters were attacked by political thugs, has reportedly claimed one life.
“Those in government should know that when anarchy comes, it consumes everybody.”
Obi’s remarks underscore concerns about the potential consequences of political violence, particularly when disagreements and rivalries between political groups spill over into physical confrontations.
The reported airport incident occurred when NDC supporters gathered to receive Ohaa, who is the party’s governorship candidate in Enugu State. The circumstances surrounding the attack, including the identities of those responsible and the full extent of the casualties, were not independently established in the information available.
The latest development also comes barely one month after the NDC alleged that “state-sponsored thugs” attacked its members during a grassroots meeting in Obuoffia Ward, Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State.
The allegation raised questions about the security of opposition party members participating in political meetings and other lawful activities. However, the claim of state involvement remains an allegation by the party and should not be treated as an established fact without independent verification.
Beyond the incident in Enugu, Obi’s account of engagements allegedly cancelled following threats suggests that concerns over political security may extend beyond a single gathering. He did not, in the statement quoted, identify all the locations affected or provide further details about the individuals who allegedly received the threats.
The incident has renewed calls for political actors to exercise restraint and for security agencies to investigate reports of violence, identify those responsible where evidence supports prosecution, and ensure that political gatherings can take place without intimidation.
As political parties and their supporters prepare for the 2027 elections, the reported attack highlights the importance of protecting citizens’ rights to freedom of association, peaceful assembly and political participation.
For Obi, the warning is that lawlessness cannot be confined to one political camp. His message is that the consequences of anarchy could eventually affect everyone, including those who may believe they are insulated from its dangers.