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From Jude Chinedu, Enugu
The gubernatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Enugu State and former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, has sent a high-powered delegation to visit and commiserate with electorates who were victims of the violent attacks that occurred during the recently concluded Enugu North Senatorial District By-Election.
Speaking through members of the delegation during visits to several victims who sustained varying degrees of injuries as a result of the alleged physical assaults, Chief Nnaji expressed deep shock and disappointment over the level to which politics in Enugu State has allegedly deteriorated.
According to him, he is dumbfounded and appalled that political competition in the state has descended to what he described as a shameful level of barbarism, intimidation and violence against innocent citizens whose only offence was exercising their democratic right to participate in the electoral process.
Chief Nnaji stated that the widespread reports of intimidation, harassment and attacks on voters have raised serious concerns about the state of democracy in Enugu State. He argued that a government that genuinely enjoys the confidence and support of the people would have no reason to resort to force, intimidation or the deployment of political thugs to influence the outcome of an election.
He further questioned the necessity of the massive mobilisation of political office holders, local government officials and other individuals into the Enugu North Senatorial Zone on the eve of the election if, indeed, the ruling party enjoyed the overwhelming support that it publicly claims.
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“If all the endorsements and public declarations of support truly reflected the wishes of the people, why was there a need for such an unprecedented deployment of political machinery and individuals into the zone a day before the election? Why were voters allegedly intimidated and prevented from freely expressing their democratic choices?” he asked.
Chief Nnaji maintained that democracy can only thrive where the will of the people is respected and where citizens are allowed to vote freely without fear of violence, intimidation or coercion.
He assured the victims and their families that they would not be abandoned in their moment of distress. He pledged his continued support and solidarity, emphasising that he would always stand with those who have remained loyal to the ideals of democracy, justice and good governance.
“I want every victim and every family affected by these unfortunate incidents to know that they are not alone. I will continue to stand with them through thick and thin. I will never betray the trust and confidence of my supporters, and I remain committed to the pursuit of justice, peace and democratic accountability in Enugu State,” he stated.
The delegation also conveyed Chief Nnaji’s wishes for the speedy recovery of all those injured during the election and reiterated his call on relevant security agencies and electoral authorities to thoroughly investigate all reported incidents and ensure that anyone found culpable is held accountable in accordance with the law.
The victims and their families expressed appreciation for the visit and thanked Chief Nnaji for identifying with them during this difficult period, describing the gesture as a demonstration of compassion, leadership and solidarity.
