NDC fumes as thugs attack, disrupt meeting in Enugu

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has vehemently condemned a violent assault on its grassroots meeting in Obuoffia Ward, Nkanu West Local Government Area, Enugu State. The opposition party accused the ambush of being an unprovoked attack by "state-sponsored thugs" aimed at suppressing constitutional rights to peaceful assembly. National Publicity Secretary Esq. warned that while NDC remains committed to democratic norms, members have the right to self-defense if security forces fail to act.

This incident follows two previous violent disruptions targeting consultations led by the party’s senatorial candidate, Uche Onyeogocha, in Imo State. The NDC directly blamed the escalating tension in Enugu on the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), asserting opposition parties face hostility due to the opposition's growing grassroots presence.

The party urged law enforcement authorities to conduct a prompt, transparent investigation to apprehend the perpetrators and their political sponsors, emphasizing that constitutional freedoms will not be relinquished to intimidation tactics.

No individual or political party has a monopoly on violence, the statement warned. Those sponsoring thugs to attack NDC members should know that self-defense is reserved. The party reaffirmed its determination to continue mobilization efforts across Enugu State and the South-East region leading up to the 2027 general elections, despite the breach. Recently, the party’s Presidential candidate, Petr Obi, was blocked from entering Benue State by suspected thugs, who blocked the highway, an allegation the state dismissed.