Author: Gist Correspondent

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has confirmed an attack on his convoy by suspected political thugs in Calabar, Cross River State, on Wednesday.

Obi said the attackers pelted vehicles in his convoy with stones and brandished machetes and other dangerous weapons, causing panic among members of his entourage and supporters.

He alleged that the attackers were members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), saying they fled after their attempt to disrupt the convoy was resisted.

“They said APC people; they were throwing stones, and people were running back. They had machetes and other dangerous weapons,” Obi said while recounting the incident.

The former Anambra State governor said he was prepared to confront the attackers rather than allow himself and his supporters to be intimidated.

He condemned the incident as an example of the political violence that has continued to threaten Nigeria’s electoral process, insisting that such acts must not be allowed during the 2027 general elections.

“All this is happening because Nigerians allow it. But we will not allow it happen in 2027,” he said.

The incident occurred at about 2:20 p.m. around the Watt Market Roundabout in Calabar as Obi’s convoy returned from a courtesy visit to the palace of the Obong of Calabar.

The convoy was heading to the Metropolitan Hotel, venue of the NDC presidential town hall meeting, when the suspected hoodlums reportedly emerged from the Calabar Road and Clerks Alley axis.

The Cross River State Police Command confirmed the attack in a statement, saying the suspects, armed with machetes and sticks, attacked vehicles in the motorcade and shattered several windshields.

The police said a 27-year-old suspect, identified as Victor Edet Yellow Duke, was arrested at the scene, while other suspects escaped through adjoining streets.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Akata, tactical personnel deployed in the area responded promptly and used tear gas to disperse the attackers and restore order.

The arrested suspect was subsequently taken to the State Police Headquarters by operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit for further interrogation.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Ajo Geoffrey Ordue, ordered a comprehensive investigation to identify and apprehend the fleeing suspects and establish the circumstances surrounding the attack.

The command reaffirmed its commitment to providing equal security protection for political parties, candidates and their supporters, irrespective of political affiliation.

It also urged residents to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information capable of heightening tension ahead of the 2027 elections.