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From Uchenna Inya, Abakaliki
Suspected political thugs, on Friday evening attacked members of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Okposi Umuoghara Ward, Ezza North Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
The incident occurred barely 48 hours after suspected political thugs attacked the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate for Ezza South State constituency, Rollins Offia Nwali which led to the death of two persons.
Eyewitnesses told journalists that suspected political thugs attacked the APGA members in the Okposi Umuoghara Ward where the party’s candidate for Ezza North/Ishielu federal constituency, Prince Emeka Irem was to pay a courtesy visit to the ward chairman of the party.
The eyewitnesses alleged that the thugs destroyed chairs, canopies and chased away all the APGA supporters who were at the venue for the courtesy visit.
They described the attack as unfortunate and barbaric, saying that unprovoked attacks on members of the opposition parties in Ezza clan must be discouraged by Governor Francis Nwifuru.
“The violent disruption and attack led to several damages at the venue and created panic among supporters and ward members who had gathered peacefully to receive their son.
“This kind of barbaric act is not only an attack on Prince Emeka Irem but an attack on democracy and the peace-loving people of Okposhi Ward and Ezza North at large.
“We must understand that politics is not war. Every candidate has the right to visit his ward, his people, and his chairman without fear of molestation. If anyone has a disagreement or a different political interest, the best way is to go to the ballot and not to the battlefield.
“Violence can never be the solution. It destroys our image, scares away development, and divides brothers who should be building together.
“Therefore, we call on all political stakeholders, youth leaders, security agencies, and elders of Ezza North to condemn this act and ensure that such violence never repeats itself.
“We stand with Prince Emeka Irem and his team, and we appeal for calm. Let us remember that violence is not the best option. Let peace reign in Okposhi, let peace reign in Ezza North, and let peace reign in Ishielu Federal Constituency”, they said.
