Tension has escalated in Ezza South and North Local Government areas of Ebonyi State following fresh violence that has claimed lives and destroyed property, including vehicles, canopies, chairs, and other valuables. The violence is attributed to suspected political thugs. The first attack occurred on October 22, 2026, in Amaezekwe, where the convoy of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate for Ezza South State Constituency, Rollins Offia Nwali, was attacked.
The attack on Nwali's convoy resulted in the deaths of two suspected political thugs, with five others receiving treatment in an undisclosed hospital in the state. Their conditions are critical, with one reportedly undergoing amputation. Nwali confirmed the attack, stating that his Toyota Hilux was burnt during the incident. He expressed sympathy to the families of those killed and appealed to youths in the state not to allow themselves to be used by politicians pursuing personal ambitions.
The Chairman of Ezza South Local Government Area, Chinedu Mkpuma, has banned political gatherings in the local government without his authorization. In a statement signed on October 23, 2026, Mkpuma said all political gatherings must obtain prior approval from his office. The Nigeria Democratic Congress in the state has condemned the attack on Nwali, describing it as a serious threat to the safety of political actors, peace, and democratic values.
The NDC party commended security agencies for their professionalism and swift intervention in ensuring Nwali's safety. The party called for a thorough investigation into the incident and vowed that no amount of intimidation, harassment, or attack would prevent it from contesting and winning the general elections. The party emphasized its pursuit of political office, guided by peace, respect for human life, and obedience to the rule of law.
The incident has caused a rift between Ebonyi State Commissioner for Commerce, Industry and Business Development, Chief Oguzorkanu Offia-Nwali, and his younger brother, Chief Rollins Offia-Nwali, the NDC candidate. The two brothers have exchanged banters over the violence, with Oguzorkanu accusing Rollins of dragging his name into the incident due to their political differences.
Oguzorkanu condemned the killing of some attackers, questioning the use of live ammunition by security personnel. He called for a thorough, impartial investigation into the incident, emphasizing that every life matters, regardless of political affiliation or ambition. Rollins, on the other hand, alleged that his brother had a hand in the attempt to eliminate him.
The violence has raised concerns about the security situation in Ebonyi State, with the NDC party calling on relevant stakeholders to discourage inflammatory rhetoric, reject violence, and promote peaceful political participation. The party also urged security agencies to strengthen measures to protect political candidates and citizens.
Key points
- The violence in Ebonyi State has resulted in loss of life and property destruction.
- The NDC party has condemned the attack and called for a thorough investigation.
- The incident has caused a rift between the Ebonyi State Commissioner and his brother, the NDC candidate.
