Enugu PDP Raises Concern Over Alleged Gunmen Attack on Akpugo Ward Meeting, Nnaji and Nweke Call for Urgent Security Action

Nnaji, Nweke Condemn Reported Violence, Urge Security Agencies to Protect Political Gatherings

ENUGU — The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Enugu State has expressed concern over an alleged attack and disruption of a party ward meeting in Akpugo Ward 3, Nkanu West Local Government Area of the state.

The incident reportedly occurred during a scheduled monthly PDP ward meeting held around a polling unit associated with the party’s 2027 governorship candidate, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, popularly known as Nwakaibie.

According to accounts from the area, the meeting was allegedly disrupted when two Sienna vehicles and about 10 motorcycles arrived at the venue. The occupants were reportedly wearing security vests identified by witnesses as those associated with the Nkanu West Local Government security structure.

Gunshots were reportedly heard during the incident, allegedly causing damage to canopies and chairs at the meeting venue and sending party members and residents into panic.

The circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear. Allegations have, however, been raised concerning the possible involvement of individuals linked to the Nkanu West Neighbourhood Watch Security.

There have also been allegations suggesting that persons associated with opposing political interests may have been connected to the incident. These allegations have not been independently established and should be subjected to a thorough investigation by the appropriate authorities.

Reacting to the development, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji and the PDP senatorial candidate for Enugu East Senatorial District, Chief Dr. Kingsley Chizoba Nweke, popularly known as Odaa Opuo, reportedly expressed solidarity with members affected by the incident.

Nnaji was said to have assured party members that the circumstances surrounding the reported attack should be properly investigated and that anyone found culpable should face the appropriate legal consequences.

The PDP leaders emphasized that political disagreements must not be allowed to degenerate into violence, intimidation or threats against citizens exercising their constitutional rights to participate in political activities.

They further stressed that the 2027 elections should be determined by ideas, competence, accountability, service delivery and the confidence of the electorate, rather than fear or intimidation.

The reported incident has consequently renewed calls for the relevant security authorities to conduct an impartial investigation, establish the facts surrounding the incident and identify anyone responsible for any criminal acts.

The PDP also urged security agencies to ensure adequate protection for political meetings and other lawful gatherings, particularly as political activities increase ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Nnaji has continued to campaign on what his supporters describe as a new direction for Enugu State, with taxation and economic opportunities featuring prominently in his political message.

Nweke, meanwhile, has promoted an inclusive political philosophy through the “Anyi-Ejebego” campaign message, which emphasizes collective participation, unity and shared responsibility.

The PDP called on all political actors, supporters and stakeholders to uphold peace and democratic values, stressing that every citizen should be free to attend political meetings, support candidates and participate in the electoral process without fear of violence or intimidation.

As political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 elections, stakeholders are expected to place greater emphasis on preventing political violence, promoting tolerance and ensuring that all lawful political gatherings remain safe and accessible to citizens.

The party therefore reiterated its call for an impartial and transparent investigation into the reported Akpugo incident, urging security agencies to protect lives and property while safeguarding the fundamental rights of citizens to participate freely in the democratic process.