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Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, has declared zero tolerance for political thuggery and violence following Wednesday’s attack on the convoy of the presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, in Calabar, ordering security agencies to identify, arrest and prosecute those responsible.
The governor, who condemned the attack as barbaric, reckless and unacceptable, warned that his administration would not allow political actors or their supporters to turn Cross River into a theatre of violence or undermine the rights of individuals and political parties to engage freely with the electorate ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued yesterday by his Chief Press Secretary, Linus Obogo, Otu expressed sadness over the incident, describing it as an affront to the peaceful disposition, hospitality and democratic values for which Cross River State is known.
“I extend my deepest, most heartfelt sympathies to Mr. Peter Obi and his team over the deeply disturbing incident that occurred yesterday during his campaign visit to our state capital,” the governor said.
He maintained that political differences must never become an excuse for violence, intimidation or attacks on political opponents, stressing that every individual and political group had the right to pursue legitimate political activities without fear of harassment.
“We unequivocally condemn this reckless assault and deprecate the action as entirely unwholesome, barbaric, and completely alien to our identity as Cross Riverians.”
Otu said his administration was determined to preserve the state’s reputation as a peaceful and hospitable destination, insisting that the actions of suspected political thugs did not represent the character or values of its people.
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He warned political actors and their supporters against resorting to violence in the pursuit of electoral advantage, declaring that the government would deal firmly with anyone found culpable, irrespective of political affiliation.
“Let it be made unmistakably clear: our administration maintains a zero-tolerance stance against political violence and criminality in any form.”
The governor disclosed that he had directed security agencies to intensify investigations into the attack and ensure that all those involved were apprehended and made to face the law.
“I have directed our security agencies to leave no stones unturned until every single perpetrator of this shameful act is brought to book to face the full weight of the law.”
Otu reassured political parties, candidates and their supporters that the state government remained committed to providing a peaceful and secure environment for political engagement, maintaining that the exercise of democratic rights must not be obstructed by violence or intimidation.
The governor reiterated that Cross River people cherished peace, harmony and mutual respect, irrespective of political differences, and would not allow the conduct of a few individuals to undermine those values.
He pledged that his administration would continue to uphold the rights of all political stakeholders to conduct lawful activities within the state while working with security agencies to prevent a recurrence of such attacks.
