The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State has raised concerns over alleged attacks on its supporters during consultative meetings in Calabar South Local Government Area. According to the party's governorship candidate, Sir Arthur Javis-Archibong, the incidents occurred on Friday, with three persons injured and several vehicles damaged. The attacks disrupted the party's meetings at the Palace of the Paramount Ruler of Calabar South and the African Club along Calabar Road.
The party alleged that gunmen opened fire on the party's convoy and damaged vehicles belonging to some supporters. About 3,000 supporters had gathered for the consultation, and the police were duly informed ahead of the meetings. The PDP chose not to retaliate despite the attacks, restraining its supporters while moving the convoy to the Commissioner of Police for protection. The party plans to formally petition the Inspector-General of Police, the Department of State Services, and other relevant security agencies over the incidents.
Javis-Archibong warned that continued disruption of political activities could have serious consequences for democratic participation and public order in the state as preparations for the 2027 elections intensify. He urged the party not to be held accountable when such disruptions lead to a total breakdown of law and order. The PDP State Publicity Secretary, Mike Ojisi, described the attacks as disturbing, targeting the party's ongoing consultative engagements.
The PDP reported the matter to the Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Geoffrey, and called on security agencies to identify and prosecute those responsible. The party urged its members and supporters to remain calm and avoid reprisals, insisting that political consultation should not be turned into an avenue for violence. The PDP expressed solidarity with those injured and reiterated its commitment to peaceful political engagement.
The state chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) denied involvement in the incident, with the APC Publicity Secretary, Emmanuel Inyang, stating that the party was concentrating on its own campaign activities. The APC advised the PDP to look elsewhere for those responsible. Meanwhile, the Cross River State Police Command confirmed that it was aware of the reported incidents.
The police command's spokesman, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, said police personnel had been deployed to the affected areas and that the situation was under control. The command is investigating the circumstances surrounding the reports, including allegations of gunfire, injuries, and damage to property. The police spokesman urged residents to remain calm, avoid affected areas where necessary, and refrain from spreading unverified information.
The police have strengthened their presence and monitoring to maintain peace and public order. The PDP's warning and the police's response highlight the importance of ensuring a safe and secure environment for political activities in the state. The incidents have raised concerns about the potential for violence to disrupt the democratic process in Cross River State.
Key points
- The PDP in Cross River State has raised concerns over alleged attacks on its supporters during consultative meetings in Calabar South Local Government Area.
- The party's governorship candidate, Sir Arthur Javis-Archibong, alleged that gunmen disrupted the party's meeting and damaged vehicles belonging to supporters.
- The Cross River State Police Command has confirmed that it is investigating the incidents and has deployed personnel to maintain peace and public order.
