The Obi Media Office has condemned an attack on the campaign convoy of Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, in Calabar, Cross River State, describing it as a “barbaric” assault on peaceful political participation and Nigeria’s democracy.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, around Watt Market Roundabout as Obi’s convoy returned from a visit to the palace of the Obong of Calabar to the Metropolitan Hotel, venue of the NDC presidential town hall meeting.
Police said suspected hoodlums armed with machetes and sticks emerged from the Calabar Road and Clerks Alley axis and attacked vehicles in the convoy, smashing windscreens.
In a statement signed by its spokesperson, Idris Zekeri Jnr., the Obi Media Office said the attack endangered democratic rights and peaceful political engagement. It accused unnamed “desperate politicians” of exploiting economic hardship to recruit vulnerable youths for political violence.
“We are especially alarmed by the calculated exploitation of Nigerian youths by desperate politicians who take advantage of the current economic hardship, entice vulnerable young people with money, and enlist them to carry out violence and obstruct democratic activities,” the statement said.
The media office argued that those who finance and organise such violence often remain protected at home, while the young people used as foot soldiers face arrest, injury, or lasting damage to their futures.
It urged Nigerian youths to reject political thuggery and pursue education, productive participation, and leadership instead.
The statement called on security agencies to conduct a comprehensive investigation, identify both direct perpetrators and alleged sponsors, and ensure accountability.
“Peter Obi remains firmly dedicated to a peaceful, issue-focused campaign and urges all political stakeholders to uphold civility, tolerance, and democratic principles,” the office said. “Nigeria is a nation we all share. No political aspiration justifies the loss of a Nigerian life.”
Police later arrested a 27-year-old suspect, Victor Edet Yellow Duke, in connection with the attack. The Cross River State Police Command said its intervention, which reportedly involved tear gas, led to the arrest while other suspected attackers fled.
Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu also condemned the incident, describing it as disturbing and directing security agencies to track down and prosecute those responsible.
The attack has heightened concerns about political violence ahead of the 2027 general elections. Obi, who addressed supporters after the incident, insisted that violence must not be allowed to undermine the polls, while the NDC maintained that no member of its delegation was injured.
Political analysts say the Calabar episode underscores the need for stronger protection for candidates, supporters, and campaign activities, particularly as parties intensify mobilisation across the country.
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