By Isaac Mission
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has called for an immediate investigation into the alleged assault on its members during a grassroots meeting in Obuoffia Ward, Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State.
The opposition party also demanded the prosecution of those responsible for the incident, including anyone found to have sponsored the attack.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, the NDC described the alleged assault as unprovoked and a serious threat to democratic participation. The party claimed that its members were attacked by thugs allegedly sponsored by the state during a peaceful political gathering.
The NDC said the incident amounted to an infringement on the constitutional right to freedom of association and peaceful assembly. It maintained that the alleged violence would not deter the party from participating in the 2027 general elections.
“As a registered political party, we have every constitutional right to participate in the democratic process through peaceful assembly. No amount of intimidation will silence this constitutionally guaranteed right,” the statement said.
Party Accuses Security Agencies of Inaction
The opposition party criticised security agencies for what it described as a complacent and slow response to attacks involving opposition members in Enugu and other parts of the South-East.
According to the NDC, the failure of security authorities to take decisive action against previous incidents had encouraged further attacks.
The party therefore urged the relevant agencies to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the Obuoffia Ward incident and ensure that all perpetrators and their alleged sponsors face justice.
“We hereby call on the security agencies to immediately launch a thorough investigation into this dastardly act and bring the perpetrators and their sponsors to justice without delay,” it said.
NDC Recalls Previous Attacks in Imo
The party further disclosed that its members had previously suffered two alleged attacks in Imo State during a town hall meeting and consultation organised by its senatorial candidate, Uche Onyeagocha.
It suggested that the incidents were connected to the increasing visibility and influence of the opposition in the region.
The NDC also accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Enugu of being unsettled by the opposition party’s growing political momentum. It vowed to continue its grassroots mobilisation and preparations for the 2027 elections despite the alleged intimidation.
“If the goal of those sponsoring these thugs and attacks is to instil fear in the hearts of the people, they have failed woefully,” the party declared.
Party Warns Against Further Violence
While condemning the alleged attack, the NDC issued a warning to those behind the incident, stating that it would not tolerate further assaults on its members.
The party said it reserved the right to defend itself, adding that no political group should assume it had exclusive control over the use of force.
“Those sponsoring thugs to attack NDC members should know that we reserve the right to self-defence. No further attack on our members will be tolerated,” the statement said.
The NDC concluded by reaffirming its commitment to organising, mobilising supporters and protecting democratic participation ahead of the 2027 general elections.