The Enugu State Government has denied involvement in the confrontation between the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) and airport authorities at Akanu Ibiam International Airport, accusing the party of attempting to hold a campaign rally without obtaining the required approval.
The government also distanced itself from a separate violent clash at the NDC state secretariat in Enugu, where a 43-year-old man, Ifeanyi Nworie, reportedly sustained a gunshot wound. He was initially treated at Enugu State University Teaching Hospital before being transferred to the National Orthopaedic Hospital for further medical attention.
Speaking at a press conference, the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Chidiebere Onyia, said the NDC allegedly proceeded with its planned statewide campaign flag-off at the airport despite advice from security agencies to obtain clearance from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).
According to Onyia, the mobilisation resulted in a confrontation with airport authorities, prompting security personnel to intervene and disperse the party members.
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On the clash at the party secretariat, the SSG said the police had commenced an investigation. He denied reports of fatalities and rejected allegations that the governor’s Chief Security Officer supervised the shooting, claiming the official was with Governor Peter Mbah at another event when the incident occurred.
Onyia further accused opposition elements of attempting to create insecurity in the state ahead of the 2027 general elections, alleging a plot to bring armed thugs and bandits into Enugu. However, these allegations were presented by the government and were not independently established in the report.
The state government condemned political violence and reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful campaigns, freedom of association and the right of citizens to elect their preferred candidates in the 2027 elections.
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