A violent incident occurred in Calabar, Cross River State, during the Peoples Democratic Party's (PDP) consultative tour on Thursday. Several PDP supporters were injured, and vehicles belonging to party members were damaged. The PDP governorship candidate, Sir Arthur Jarvis-Archibong, confirmed that the first attack took place at the palace of the Paramount Ruler of Calabar South, Etubom Nyong Edet Okon I. Gunmen disrupted a meeting, injuring three persons, who were subsequently taken to the hospital for treatment.
The violence escalated at the African Club along Calabar Road, where another meeting was scheduled. Hoodlums allegedly shot at the party's convoy, damaging vehicles belonging to members of the consultative team. According to Jarvis-Archibong, approximately 3,000 supporters attended the exercise, and the party had notified the police ahead of the tour, expecting adequate security. The party restrained its supporters from retaliating and instead moved its convoy to the Commissioner of Police for protection.
The PDP has announced plans to petition the Inspector-General of Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other relevant security agencies over the incidents. Jarvis-Archibong warned that continued attacks on political activities could undermine the democratic process and lead to a breakdown of law and order as preparations for the 2027 elections intensify. The party's State Publicity Secretary also condemned the attacks and urged security agencies to identify and prosecute those responsible.
The PDP appealed to its members to remain calm and avoid retaliatory actions. The party reported the incidents to the Commissioner of Police, Cross River Command. In response, the state chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) denied responsibility for the incident. The APC Publicity Secretary, Emmanuel Inyang, stated that the PDP should look elsewhere for those responsible, adding that the party was focused on its own political activities.
The Cross River State Police Command confirmed the incidents and reported that personnel had been deployed to the affected locations. The command's spokesman, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, stated that police were verifying reports of gunfire, injuries, and damage to property. He added that the situation was under control and advised residents to remain calm, avoid affected areas where necessary, and refrain from circulating unverified information.
The police presence and monitoring have been strengthened to maintain peace and public order. Residents are being urged to cooperate with the authorities and provide any necessary information to help identify those responsible for the attacks. The incidents have raised concerns about the security situation in the state, particularly with regards to the upcoming 2027 elections.
The PDP and other stakeholders will be watching closely to ensure that those responsible for the attacks are brought to justice. The party's leadership has reiterated its commitment to peaceful and constructive engagement, despite the challenges posed by such incidents. The government and security agencies have been tasked with ensuring the safety and security of all citizens, particularly during this critical period.
Key points
- The PDP has reported the incidents to the relevant security agencies and plans to petition the Inspector-General of Police and the Department of State Services.
- The All Progressives Congress (APC) has denied responsibility for the attacks, stating that the PDP should look elsewhere for those responsible.
- The Cross River State Police Command has confirmed the incidents and deployed personnel to the affected locations to maintain peace and public order.
