The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has strongly condemned the recent attack on the convoy of its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, in Calabar, Cross River State. The party described the incident as unacceptable and a threat to Nigeria's democratic process. According to the NDC, the attack occurred shortly after Obi visited the Obong of Calabar's Palace in Calabar. The party's National Presidential Campaign Council spokesperson, Dr Chiogo Constance Ikokwu, signed the statement condemning the attack.
The NDC revealed that one of the vehicles in Obi's convoy was ambushed during the attack, but fortunately, no member of Obi's delegation was injured. This incident is not the first of its kind, as a similar attack was recorded in Benue State, where Obi's convoy encountered a roadblock mounted by a mob along the Makurdi-Gboko Federal Highway. The party expressed concern over the increasing cases of violence and intimidation in the country's political landscape.
The NDC emphasized that political participation should not come with the risk of physical attacks, stressing that every Nigerian has the right to associate and campaign freely. The party maintained that Nigeria belongs to all its citizens, and every Nigerian has the right to participate in politics without fear of violence. The NDC called on the Cross River State Government and security agencies to investigate the incident and ensure that those responsible face prosecution.
The party warned that the authorities must not ignore the attack or create the impression that political violence would be tolerated. The NDC stated that silence and inaction only embolden perpetrators, and therefore, the government must take decisive action to prevent future incidents. The party reaffirmed its commitment to the political process, stating that the attack would not force it to abandon its activities or discourage its supporters.
The NDC also warned against attempts to use threats and attacks to influence the country's political process, insisting that political power should come through the choice of voters. The party emphasized that no one should imagine that power can be seized through threats, intimidation, and attacks rather than earned through the democratic will of the people. The NDC described the forthcoming election as crucial to Nigeria's future.
The party urged stakeholders to protect the country's democratic process from political violence. The NDC emphasized that Nigeria's democracy must not be held hostage by political violence, and therefore, all stakeholders must work together to ensure a peaceful and credible election. The party's statement has been widely welcomed by Nigerians who are calling for an end to political violence.
The incident has raised concerns about the security of politicians and their supporters during the election period. The NDC's resolve to continue with its democratic process despite the attack has been seen as a testament to its commitment to democracy and the will of the Nigerian people. The party's call for the government and security agencies to take action has also been seen as a step in the right direction.
Key points
- The NDC party condemns the attack on Peter Obi's convoy and vows to continue the democratic process.
- The party calls on the government and security agencies to investigate the incident and ensure that those responsible face prosecution.
- The NDC emphasizes that political power should come through the choice of voters, not through threats, intimidation, and attacks.