2027 polls: PDP condemns attack on party chieftain, journalists in Ebonyi

Leadership of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Ebonyi State chapter, has condemned the attack on former All Progressives Congress, APC, chieftain, Barrister Ifeanyi Nworie, who left the ruling party.  

The incident took place at ldembia, in Ezza south local government Area of Ebonyi State on Saturday.

The opposition party also condemned the alleged attacks on Nwori’s supporters and journalists by agents and appointees of the APC-led Ebonyi State Government.

The party said that in the last few weeks, supporters and members of the PDP have faced threats from the same agents of the Ebonyi State Government ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The party stated that the thugs were led by a former member of the House of Representatives, senior officials of the Ebonyi State Government, including ex-PDP Ezza south LG chairman and others.

Briefing newsmen in Abakaliki on Saturday night, the PDP state chairman, Chukwuma lgwe, alleged that vehicles were damaged and several people assaulted with dangerous weapons, adding that eight persons are currently receiving treatment in the hospital. 

According to lgwe, “we called this press conference to draw the attention of Nigerians to the undemocratic action deliberately orchestrated to undermine the conduct of the 2027 general elections in Ebonyi State.”

He called on all security agencies to uphold their constitutional responsibility of protecting all Nigerians and ensuring that every citizen of Ebonyi State is free to exercise their civic responsibilities in accordance with the constitution, including the rights to freedom of association and political participation.

“We state unequivocally that the PDP in Ebonyi State will not be intimidated by undemocratic forces, irrespective of who may be behind them.

“As political activities commence in the coming days, we urge our members to remain peaceful and law-abiding. We also call on the Ebonyi State Government to play by the rules of democracy, bearing in mind that no one has a monopoly of violence or misconduct.

“We further urge all security agencies to remain impartial in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities, in the interest of democracy and justice.

“We specifically call on the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Nigerian Armed Forces, and all other relevant security agencies to ensure a level playing field for all political parties and political activities throughout Ebonyi State.

“Ebonyi State belongs to all Ebonyians, and every eligible citizen has the constitutional right to freely express his or her political preference without fear of intimidation, harassment, or molestation.

“Today, we state clearly that the PDP in Ebonyi State is prepared to pursue every constitutional and lawful means to ensure that the rights and safety of our members are protected.