…Alleges gunshots, vandalism, injuries, demands arrest of perpetrators
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has raised the alarm over alleged attacks on its campaign team in Cross River State, accusing armed thugs of disrupting its political consultations and calling on security agencies to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The opposition party alleged that its team came under attack while consulting with residents across the state, claiming that the assailants vandalised vehicles, fired gunshots and injured several supporters.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Monday, the PDP National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Haruna Mohammed, described the incident as an assault on democratic participation and the right of political parties to engage freely with voters.
The party urged security agencies to investigate the incident promptly and impartially, warning that attacks on political opponents could threaten public safety and undermine the democratic process ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The PDP also accused the Cross River State governor of sponsoring the alleged attacks but did not provide evidence to substantiate the allegation in its statement.
It warned that the governor would face the electorate’s judgment in the 2027 elections, insisting that political intimidation was not a substitute for good governance.
According to the party, the governor should focus on addressing concerns about his administration’s performance rather than allegedly resorting to intimidation against opposition figures.
The PDP further criticised the state government’s record in office, claiming that it had yet to demonstrate sufficient evidence of major projects initiated and completed since assuming power.
It alleged that some projects being presented as achievements amounted largely to repainting existing structures and challenged the administration to provide a detailed account of how public funds had been spent.
The party maintained that the resources accruing to Cross River State should translate into visible development, improved infrastructure, job opportunities and better living conditions for residents.
It added that elected officials held public office in trust for the people and should not treat political power as a personal entitlement to be retained through intimidation or unlawful means.
The opposition party said Cross River needed a new direction and responsible leadership that prioritised the welfare of residents above partisan interests.
It also claimed that its candidates were offering an alternative vision for the state through consultations with residents, listening to their concerns and presenting proposals for the state’s development.
Despite the alleged attacks, the PDP vowed not to abandon its political activities, insisting that it would continue engaging voters and defending the rights of its candidates and supporters.
The party urged residents to remain peaceful and law-abiding while participating in the democratic process, calling on political actors to exercise restraint and avoid actions capable of triggering violence.
It specifically asked security agencies to protect political stakeholders across party lines, prevent a recurrence of the alleged attacks and ensure that anyone found culpable was prosecuted in accordance with the law, irrespective of political affiliation or position.
The PDP reaffirmed its commitment to advocating accountable leadership and improved living conditions for the people of Cross River State.
