Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate Peter Obi vows political violence will not undermine the 2027 polls.
The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, has strongly condemned an attack on his campaign convoy by suspected thugs in Calabar, Cross River State, assuring supporters that political violence will not disrupt the upcoming electoral process.
The incident occurred on Wednesday when suspected assailants armed with machetes and other weapons targeted campaign buses, smashing windscreens and side mirrors, while creating widespread panic among roadside traders and passersby, according to information published by punchng.
Obi was visiting the region alongside his wife, Margaret, and his running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, to attend a town hall meeting. The violent encounter follows a similar security challenge in Benue State roughly two months prior, where youths blocked a federal highway.
Peter Obi convoy attacked in Calabar
During the town hall meeting, Peter Obi recounted how he personally witnessed the assault and how his security detail advised him to reroute because the attackers carried machetes. A viral 30-second video captured individuals wearing black shirts, fez caps, and face coverings damaging vehicles with sharp weapons.
One of Obi's media aides, Esther Umoh, raised the alarm on social media as the violence unfolded. She later shared footage showing a victim with a gunshot wound to the leg being evacuated from the area, attributing the injury to a stray bullet during the chaos.
Growing security concerns for 2027 campaigns
This violent episode in Cross River State highlights mounting tensions ahead of the 2027 general election. Political analysts and campaign teams are increasingly worried about safety, particularly after a previous blockade along the Makurdi-Gboko Federal Highway in Benue State.
In the Benue incident, security forces intervened, and the state police commissioner, Cletus Nwadiogbu, confirmed that at least 46 suspects were arrested. Authorities have repeatedly warned that political intolerance and thuggery will face strict legal consequences.
Response from political leadership and aides
Despite the dangerous disruption in Calabar, Peter Obi remained defiant, stating that such intimidation tactics will fail. He emphasized that Nigerians must reject violence, declaring that the country will not allow thugs to sabotage the democratic process in the future.
Efforts by journalists to reach the spokesperson for the NDC Presidential Campaign Council, Constance Ikokwu, and Obi's spokesman, Idris Zekeri, for further official statements regarding the security breach were ultimately unsuccessful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who attacked Peter Obi's convoy in Cross River?
Suspected thugs and armed assailants attacked the campaign convoy of Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate Peter Obi in Calabar, Cross River State.
What happened during the attack on Peter Obi in Calabar?
Assailants smashed windscreens and side mirrors of campaign buses with machetes, while a bystander sustained a leg injury from a stray bullet during the chaos.
Were there any arrests made in previous campaign attacks involving Peter Obi?
Yes, following a related convoy blockade in Benue State, the police commissioner confirmed that at least 46 suspects were arrested and investigations remain ongoing.
Who accompanied Peter Obi to Cross River State?
Peter Obi arrived in Calabar alongside his wife, Margaret, and his designated running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, for a scheduled town hall meeting.
