2027: Enugu Govt alleges opposition plot to import armed thugs, bandits
Enugu State Government Addresses Security Concerns Amid Opposition Claims
Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah has faced accusations of government involvement in recent incidents connected to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). The Enugu State Government responded by alleging that some opposition figures are planning to introduce armed thugs into the state to instill fear as the 2027 general elections approach.
Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, Secretary to the State Government (SSG), made this announcement during a press conference on Sunday at the Government House in Enugu. He specifically addressed events that took place at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport and the NDC state secretariat on Saturday.
Onyia categorically denied any government or security official involvement in the incidents, characterizing the confrontations at the airport as a dispute between the NDC and federal authorities. He stated that a police investigation is ongoing regarding the shooting incident at the party’s secretariat.
According to Onyia, preliminary investigations indicate that the airport confrontation occurred when the NDC attempted to host a “Grand Statewide Campaign Flag-off 2026” event without the required approval from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). He noted that the party had publicized the event through its social media channels.
“The police had advised the party to secure FAAN’s approval before arranging for security personnel at the venue,” he explained. Onyia added that findings suggested the NDC disregarded this advice, leading to attempts to enter the airport facilities and resulting in a confrontation with airport authorities. Security agencies intervened to restore order.
With regards to the shooting incident at the NDC secretariat, Onyia confirmed that the police are investigating a violent altercation that took place there. While initial reports suggested fatalities, Onyia affirmed that no deaths had occurred. He mentioned that a 43-year-old man, Ifeanyi Nworie, was injured in the incident and subsequently stabilized at a local hospital before being transferred for further care.
“Our findings indicate there were no fatalities, contrary to claims circulated by some reports and NDC leaders,” he stated.
Onyia contested allegations that the Governor’s Chief Security Officer was present at the secretariat, asserting that he was with Governor Mbah at a separate political event during the time of the shooting. He criticized any attempts to mislead the public for political gain, particularly regarding reports of a minute of silence held for an individual who was, in fact, alive.
He reiterated the commitment of the Mbah administration to protect the rights of all residents, regardless of political affiliations, while stressing the importance of maintaining peace and order for economic growth and investment in Enugu State. The government has reportedly made significant investments in security over the past three years.
“The Enugu State Government condemns all forms of violence, including politically induced violence,” Onyia said. He urged political parties to engage in constructive and issue-focused campaigning as the elections draw nearer.
Onyia also alleged that some opposition groups are attempting to persuade the public that Enugu is unsafe, leveraging internal disputes to discredit the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state. He referenced a previous incident in Nkanu West Local Government Area where investigations had identified the alleged instigators.
In closing, Onyia reaffirmed the government’s resolve to uphold the peace established in Enugu over recent years and expressed confidence in securing a second term for Governor Mbah based on his administration’s performance and commitment to democratic principles. “The fundamental right of residents to elect their leaders through free and fair elections is essential to the democratic development of the state,” he concluded.
