The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ebonyi State has condemned the alleged attack on former All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Barrister Ifeanyi Nworie, his supporters and some journalists during an incident in Idembia, Ezza South Local Government Area.
The opposition party said the attack happened on Saturday as political activities begin to gather pace ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The state chapter of the PDP accused individuals linked to the APC-led Ebonyi State Government of carrying out the attack. It also claimed that members and supporters of the party had faced repeated threats in recent weeks as preparations for the next general elections continued.
According to the party, the group responsible for the incident allegedly included a former member of the House of Representatives, senior government officials, a former PDP chairman in Ezza South Local Government Area and other political figures.
Speaking during a press briefing in Abakaliki on Saturday night, the PDP State Chairman, Chukwuma Igwe, said the incident resulted in the destruction of vehicles and left several people with injuries. He disclosed that eight victims were receiving medical treatment following the attack.
The party said the incident raised concerns about the political atmosphere in the state ahead of the 2027 elections. It urged security agencies to carry out their constitutional duty by protecting lives and property while ensuring that all citizens are free to participate in political activities without intimidation or harassment.
The PDP also maintained that it would continue to pursue lawful and constitutional means to protect the rights and safety of its members throughout the election period.
The party appealed to its members to remain peaceful and obey the law despite the development. It also called on the Ebonyi State Government to uphold democratic principles and create an environment where all political parties can operate freely.
The opposition party further appealed to the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Armed Forces and other relevant security agencies to remain neutral and provide equal protection for all political parties and their supporters during political activities across the state.
According to the PDP, every eligible resident of Ebonyi State has the constitutional right to freely associate with any political party and participate in the democratic process without fear of intimidation, harassment or violence.