Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has condemned the attack on the convoy of Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, in Calabar and directed security agencies to identify and arrest those responsible.
The incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon near the Watt Market Roundabout as Obi and his entourage were returning from the palace of the Obong of Calabar to the Metropolitan Hotel, where an NDC presidential town hall meeting was scheduled to take place.
According to reports, suspected political thugs attacked the convoy by throwing stones at several vehicles, damaging windshields and causing panic among supporters and other members of the delegation. Obi also alleged that some of the attackers carried machetes and other dangerous weapons.
In a statement issued through his Chief Press Secretary, Linus Obogo, Governor Otu described the attack as disturbing and inconsistent with the peaceful and hospitable reputation of Cross River State.
The governor expressed sympathy for Obi and members of his entourage, stressing that every political actor has the constitutional right to campaign and engage with voters without fear of intimidation or violence.
Otu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to maintaining peace and security, warning that political violence would not be tolerated regardless of the affiliations of those involved.
He said security agencies had been instructed to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that all individuals connected to the attack are brought to justice.
Obi, while confirming the incident, alleged that the perpetrators were members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and cautioned against allowing violence to undermine the credibility of the 2027 general elections.
The Cross River State Police Command also confirmed the attack, stating that officers deployed tear gas to disperse the hoodlums. Police disclosed that a 27-year-old suspect, identified as Victor Edet Yellow Duke, had been arrested and transferred to the State Police Headquarters for further investigation.
Commissioner of Police Ajo Geoffrey Ordue has ordered an extensive investigation aimed at apprehending other suspects who fled the scene and determining the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
The police command further assured all political parties and their supporters of equal security protection, emphasising its commitment to maintaining law and order throughout the electioneering period.
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