The attack on the convoy of Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, in Calabar, Cross River State, has raised fresh concerns over the safety of political actors as activities ahead of the 2027 general elections intensify.
Obi’s convoy was reportedly attacked by suspected thugs shortly after he visited the palace of the Obong of Calabar as part of his engagements in the state.
A video circulating online showed a group of persons suspected to be thugs confronting the convoy shortly after the palace visit, with the situation causing tension among supporters and members of the delegation.
Obi was accompanied by his wife, Mrs Margaret Obi, during the visit, although details of their safety, the extent of damage to vehicles, and possible injuries have not been officially confirmed.
The identity of the attackers and the motive behind the incident remain unclear as of the time of filing this report.
The development has renewed conversations about the need to protect political candidates, supporters and citizens as campaigns and political engagements increase ahead of the 2027 elections.
Governor Otu condemns attack on Peter Obi’s convoy, orders security agencies to arrest perpetrators
Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has condemned the attack on the convoy of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, by suspected political thugs during his campaign visit to Calabar on Wednesday, describing the incident as barbaric and completely unacceptable.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Linus Obogo, Governor Otu expressed sympathy with Obi and members of his campaign team, saying the attack does not reflect the peaceful nature and values of Cross River State.
“I extend my deepest and heartfelt sympathies to Mr. Peter Obi and his team over the disturbing incident that occurred during his campaign visit to our state capital,” the governor said.
He stressed that Cross River remains a peaceful and hospitable state, adding that the government stands in solidarity with all political actors exercising their constitutional rights without intimidation.
“As a government and as a people, our hearts go out to him, and we stand firmly against every act intended to instill fear or disrupt the peaceful exercise of political rights. Cross River has long been known as the cradle of hospitality, warmth and mutual respect, irrespective of political affiliation,” Otu stated.
The governor lamented that the violence was contrary to the state’s tradition of peace and tolerance, noting that such acts have no place in Cross River.
“To witness such hostility within our dear state breaks our hearts. We unequivocally condemn this reckless assault and describe it as unwholesome, barbaric and completely alien to our identity as Cross Riverians,” he said.
Governor Otu reiterated his administration’s commitment to maintaining law and order, warning that political violence would not be tolerated under any circumstance.
“Let it be made unmistakably clear that our administration maintains a zero-tolerance stance against political violence and criminality in any form,” he declared.
The governor also directed security agencies to immediately identify and arrest those responsible for the attack, assuring that they would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
“I have directed our security agencies to leave no stone unturned until every single perpetrator of this shameful act is apprehended and made to face the full weight of the law,” Otu said.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting lives, property and the democratic rights of all Nigerians, regardless of political affiliation, assuring residents and visitors that Cross River remains safe for lawful political activities.
