Peter Obi Condemns Attack on NDC Members in Delta State

Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has strongly condemned the attack on members and coordinators of the party and the Obidient Movement in Delta State. The incident occurred on Saturday, November 7, during an NDC political rally in Asaba, the Delta State capital, and left several members injured, including the Delta State Deputy Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Comrade Noah, who was stabbed with daggers.

Obi described the incident as a disturbing threat to Nigeria's democracy and expressed sadness over the attack. He insisted that political disagreements should never be settled through intimidation or physical attacks, and that no political ambition was worth the life of a Nigerian. Obi called on the government and security agencies to launch an immediate investigation into the incident, identify those responsible, and ensure they are brought to justice, irrespective of their political affiliations.

The former Anambra State governor maintained that the attack would not discourage him and his supporters from participating in democratic activities. He stated that they would not be intimidated or silenced, nor would they relinquish their democratic space to violence. Obi stressed that every Nigerian had the right to organise, participate in political activities, express opinions, and freely elect their preferred leaders without fear of intimidation.

Dr. Mo, the National Coordinator of the Global Obidient Movement, also condemned the attack, describing it as another indication of the growing threat of political violence and intimidation in the country. He disclosed that Comrade Noah was stabbed with daggers during the incident, while several other members sustained injuries. Dr. Mo raised concerns about the country's political atmosphere, questioning the consequences of inflammatory statements and alleged threats against opposition members by some political leaders.

Dr. Mo specifically referenced alleged threats by All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftains involving AK-47 rifles, inflammatory comments attributed to serving senators, and remarks by political leaders about driving opposition members out of their states. He asked what message such statements send and how they could encourage hostility among supporters and create an environment where opposition members become targets of physical attacks.

The group called for an immediate investigation into the attack and demanded that those responsible be identified and prosecuted. They also called for accountability over the injuries sustained by Noah and other victims, insisting that Nigerians must be able to participate in political activities without fear of violence. Dr. Mo stated that democracy is not warfare, opposition is not a crime, and political competition is not a licence to murder.

The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with many calling for an end to political violence in Nigeria. Obi and Dr. Mo have reiterated their commitment to peaceful and democratic participation in the country's politics. The NDC presidential candidate expressed solidarity with those affected by the attack, calling for a country founded on justice, liberty, peace, and respect for the dignity of citizens.

Key points

• Peter Obi calls for investigation and justice after attack on NDC members in Delta State.
• The incident is seen as a threat to Nigeria's democracy and an example of growing political violence.
• The group demands accountability and an end to political violence in Nigeria.