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From Jude Chinedu, Enugu
The Enugu State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has denied allegations that the party, its leaders, or Governor Peter Mbah sponsored political violence in Nkanu West Local Government Area of the state.
The party described the allegations as “misleading, unsubstantiated, and politically motivated”, urging security agencies to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation to establish the facts surrounding the reported incident.
In a statement issued yesterday by its state Publicity Secretary, Chief Uche Obute, the APC said political disagreements were legitimate in a democracy, but should not be allowed to degenerate into violence, character assassination, or the spread of unverified claims.
“The APC Enugu State Chapter, unequivocally, rejects these allegations, describing them as misleading, unsubstantiated, politically motivated, and inconsistent with the peaceful and democratic disposition of the party and the administration of Governor Peter Mbah,” the statement said. The party said it was particularly concerned about attempts to link Mbah to the incident, arguing that the governor had consistently prioritised peace, security, law and order in the state.
It said: “It is, therefore, difficult to reconcile allegations of sponsorship of violence with an administration that has consistently placed security, development, and good governance among its major priorities.”
The APC also appealed to opposition parties and other political actors to exercise restraint and engage in constructive political activities, warning against the use of an unfortunate incident to create tension in the state. The party further argued that Mbah’s ancestral and political ties to Nkanu made allegations linking him to violence in the area particularly unfortunate.
“As a son of Nkanu, the peace, security, development, and wellbeing of the people remain matters of profound importance to him,” it said.
The APC called on relevant security and law-enforcement agencies to conduct a “thorough, impartial, and professional investigation” into the incident, stressing that anyone found culpable should face the full weight of the law, regardless of political affiliation or status. “The APC has nothing to fear from a transparent investigation and will continue to uphold the principles of democracy, justice, and the rule of law,” the party said.
It also urged its members and supporters to remain calm and law-abiding, particularly in the face of what it described as rumours, misinformation, and inflammatory political statements. The party appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, community leaders, youth organisations, and civil society groups to promote peace and dialogue.
The APC said political differences should be resolved through “dialogue, democratic participation, and lawful processes rather than confrontation or violence”.
It reaffirmed its support for the Mbah administration and urged political actors not to allow disputes to derail development efforts in the state.
