BY: EMMANUEL CHUKWUMA, ENUGU.

The Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has strongly condemned the recent violent attack on a former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi, and a former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, (APC), Chief John Odigie-Oyegun in Benin City, Edo State.

This was made known through a statement released to the media by the National Publicity Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Dr. Ezechi Chukwu.

Consequently, the Igbo apex body called on relevant security agencies to conduct a thorough, transparent, and expeditious investigation into this dastardly act and ensure that the perpetrators are identified and brought to justice.

“The incident, which reportedly occurred after a political engagement involving the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and during which hoodlums unleashed violence and gunfire is deeply disturbing and utterly reprehensible. The fact that prominent political leaders could be subjected to such danger in the course of lawful democratic activities is a grave threat to our national cohesion and democratic order.”

According to the statement, the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Senator Azuta Mbata described the attack as “unprovoked and completely unacceptable in a civilised democracy. Such acts of political violence are a direct assault on the rule of law and a dangerous signal capable of undermining public confidence in our democratic process.”

The organization further urged the authorities to ensure adequate protection for all political actors, irrespective of party affiliation, across the nation. “The safety of political leaders and citizens alike is fundamental to the health, stability, and credibility of Nigeria’s democracy.”

Ohanaeze Ndigbo reiterates its unwavering commitment to peace, political tolerance, and the sanctity of democratic engagement nationwide.