Obi-Kwankwaso convoy attacked in Calabar

On Wednesday, unidentified assailants targeted the motorcade carrying the presidential hopefuls of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr Peter Obi and Alhaji Rabiu Kwankwaso, in Calabar, Cross River State. The attackers hurled stones and other debris at the vehicles, inflicting damage on some of them. Neither Obi nor Kwankwaso sustained injuries during the assault.

The incident transpired while the presidential candidates were en route to a renowned hotel adjacent to the U.J. Esuene Stadium, following a meeting with the Obong of Calabar. The scheduled agenda included a town hall session with NDC stakeholders, supporters, and party candidates.

The cause of the attack and the role, if any, of those behind it remained unclear at the time of reporting. The event unfolded in the wake of the police and other security forces thwarting a potential confrontation between supporters of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the NDC in Calabar. The APC members, comprising individuals associated with the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), had convened at the Government House earlier in the day, meeting with Governor Bassey Otu.

ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, the state Police Public Relations Officer, confirmed both incidents, stating that the command had ramped up surveillance to thwart further disruptions to law and order. In regard to the assault on the NDC convoy, Akata disclosed that a suspect had been apprehended.