The Zonal Coordinator of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC Youth Wing, Southeast Zone, Mazi Igwe Ogbonnaya, has condemned the attack on the entourage of the NDC Presidential Candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, describing it as a calculated attempt by the APC-led government to intimidate the opposition and “kill democracy” in Nigeria.
Mr. Obi’s convoy was attacked on Monday, 8th September 2026, while on a solidarity visit to Yelwata community in Benue State to commiserate with victims of recent terrorist attacks.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday, Mazi Igwe said the attack was not just on Mr. Obi, but on the right of Nigerians to associate, mourn, and seek political alternatives.
“What happened in Yelwata yesterday is a shameful reminder that the APC is poised to kill democracy in Nigeria,” Igwe said.
“How do you attack a Presidential candidate who went to Benue to stand with victims of terrorism? This is the height of intolerance and desperation. Nigerians must rise and defend our democracy before it is too late.”
He noted that the visit to Yelwata was humanitarian and non-political, aimed at showing solidarity with families displaced and bereaved by repeated attacks in Benue.
“Instead of providing security for citizens, this government is deploying state and non-state actors to attack opposition leaders. This is unacceptable and a threat to our 2027 democratic process,” he added.
The NDC Youth Wing Southeast Zone called on the Inspector General of Police and other security agencies to immediately investigate, arrest, and prosecute those behind the attack.
Igwe further urged Nigerians, especially youths in the Southeast and across the country, to remain peaceful but vigilant, and not to be cowed by acts of intimidation.
“Our party, the NDC, will not be silenced. We will continue to mobilize, sensitize, and engage Nigerians on the need for a new direction come 2027,” he said.
The attack on Mr. Obi’s convoy has drawn condemnation from civil society groups and opposition parties, who are calling for urgent reforms to guarantee the safety of political actors ahead of the 2027 general elections.
