2027: Enugu NRM candidate warns against political violence

The governorship candidate of the National Rescue Movement (NRM) in Enugu State, Engr. Dr. Christopher Ndubuisi Okonkwo, has condemned reports of attacks on supporters of a fellow governorship aspirant, calling on security agencies to investigate the incidents and bring anyone found responsible to justice.

In a statement, Okonkwo expressed concern over reports that armed individuals attacked supporters who had gathered to welcome their governorship candidate.

He sympathised with those reportedly injured and their families, stressing that political differences should not deprive citizens of their right to participate freely and peacefully in the democratic process.

The NRM candidate condemned political violence, intimidation and acts that endanger lives, insisting that no political ambition or disagreement could justify attacks on citizens.

He urged the Enugu State Government and relevant security agencies to investigate the reported incidents, establish the circumstances surrounding them and ensure that anyone found culpable was prosecuted, regardless of political affiliation or status.

Okonkwo said the protection of lives and property would be a priority under his proposed administration, adding that effective policing, timely intelligence, community engagement and accountability would be central to tackling insecurity in the state.

He also appealed to political parties and their supporters to remain peaceful and law-abiding, noting that political competition should not undermine peaceful coexistence.

The governorship candidate called on Governor Peter Mbah to condemn and investigate what he described as repeated attacks aimed at suppressing political campaigns in the state.

He warned against allowing the situation to deteriorate, urging the authorities to take preventive measures to protect political parties and their supporters from violence.

Okonkwo stressed the need for the government and security agencies to act promptly to prevent further escalation.

He reiterated that every resident of Enugu State deserved protection, irrespective of political affiliation, and called for peaceful political engagement ahead of the 2027 governorship election.