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…We are verifying the incidents – Police
From Aniekan Aniekan, Calabar
Panic gripped Calabar South on Friday as gunmen allegedly disrupted and opened fire on supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) during consultative meetings.
The party’s governorship candidate, Sir Arthur Javis-Archibong, said the first attack happened at the palace of the Paramount Ruler of Calabar South, Etubom Nyong Edet Okon I, where three persons were injured and rushed to hospital.
He said the second attack occurred minutes later at the African Club along Calabar Road, venue of the main consultation, where vehicles in the party’s convoy were damaged after hoodlums shot sporadically.
Javis-Archibong, said about 3,000 supporters attended the exercise and the party had duly notified the police and expected adequate security.
“We restrained our supporters from retaliation and moved straight to the Commissioner of Police for protection,” he said.
He warned that continued attacks on political activities could lead to a total breakdown of law and order as preparations for the 2027 general elections intensify.
The PDP State Publicity Secretary, in an official statement, described the incidents as “disturbing attacks” and said the party had reported the matter to the Commissioner of Police, CP Geoffrey and other security agencies.
He urged security agencies to identify the perpetrators and prosecute them, while appealing to members to remain calm.
Confirming the incident, Police spokesman, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, said personnel had been deployed to the affected locations and the situation was under control.
“The Command is verifying the circumstances surrounding the incidents, including reports of gunfire, injuries and damage to property,” he said, urging residents to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information.
