On Wednesday, during a campaign stop in Calabar, the convoy of Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate Peter Obi was assaulted, prompting Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu to publicly condemn the incident and order security agencies to apprehend the culprits.
What did the governor say?
Governor Otu, speaking through his Chief Press Secretary Linus Obogo, expressed profound sadness over the event and extended heartfelt sympathy to the former Anambra governor and his entourage. He remarked, “I extend my deepest, most heartfelt sympathies to Mr Peter Obi and his team over the deeply disturbing incident that occurred yesterday during his campaign visit to our state capital.”
Why is the attack significant?
The assault was described as antithetical to Cross River’s long‑standing reputation for hospitality, peace and civil decorum. Otu emphasized that the state has traditionally been celebrated as a “cradle of hospitality, warmth and civil decorum in Nigeria,” and that the violent act does not reflect the values of its people.
What stance does the administration take?
Otu warned that his government would not tolerate any form of political violence or criminality. He declared, “Let it be made unmistakably clear: our administration maintains a zero‑tolerance stance against political violence and criminality in any form.”
What actions were ordered?
The governor disclosed that he had instructed security agencies to leave “no stone unturned” until every individual involved in the “shameful act” is identified, arrested, and brought before the law to face the full weight of justice.
What does this mean for future political activities?
Otu assured political parties that Cross River remains open to peaceful and lawful political engagement, stressing that no candidate or supporter should be intimidated or prevented from exercising their democratic rights.
The governor’s statement underscores the administration’s commitment to safeguarding democratic processes in the state and signals a firm response to any attempts at disrupting the electoral environment.