The 2027 presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has condemned reported attacks on members and coordinators of the party and the Obidient Movement in Delta State.
In a statement on Saturday, Mr Obi said he was profoundly saddened and deeply disturbed by reports of violence directed at the groups.
“I unequivocally condemn the attacks against our coordinators, supporters, and fellow citizens who were merely exercising their democratic rights. Political violence has no place in a democracy and can never be justified. No political aspiration is worth the life of a Nigerian, and no dispute should be resolved through intimidation, physical attacks, or the destruction of property,” Mr Obi said.
Thuggery cannot win power
Mr Obi said it was particularly troubling that at a time when Nigeria urgently needs responsible leadership, some individuals continue to believe that political influence can be secured through thuggery, fear, and violence.
“Political authority should be attained through persuasion and the trust of the people, not by intimidating opponents,” he said.
Demand for investigation
The former Anambra State governor urged the government and security agencies to conduct an immediate and thorough investigation into the attacks, identify those responsible, and ensure that they face justice, irrespective of their political affiliations.
“The safety and security of our members must be assured,” he said.
Mr Obi said his supporters will not be intimidated or silenced, nor will they relinquish their democratic space to violence.
“Our response will remain peaceful, lawful, and determined.
“Nigeria belongs to every one of us. No political party or individual has exclusive ownership of the democratic space. Every Nigerian is entitled to organise, gather, express their views, and freely elect their leaders.”
He said Nigeria needs constructive ideas rather than intimidation, responsible leadership rather than thuggery, and democratic contest rather than political violence.
“I stand in solidarity with everyone affected in Delta State. A New Nigeria must be founded on justice, liberty, peace, and respect for the dignity of every citizen,” Mr Obi said.
