The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has condemned an attack on its members during a grassroots meeting in Obuoffia Ward, Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State, accusing state-sponsored thugs of carrying out the assault. The party described the incident as unprovoked and warned against what it called incessant attacks on its members.

In a statement issued by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, the NDC said it has a constitutional right as a registered political party to participate in the democratic process through peaceful assembly. The party stated: “This incessant assault on our members by state-sponsored thugs must stop. As a registered political party, we have every constitutional right to participate in the democratic process through peaceful assembly. No amount of intimidation will silence this constitutionally guaranteed right”.

The NDC alleged that violence against its members in Enugu and other parts of the South-East constituted an affront to democracy and the constitutional freedom of association. The party also accused security agencies of complacency in responding to attacks against opposition groups in Enugu and across the South-East. It recalled that its members were allegedly attacked twice in Imo State during a town hall meeting and consultation by its senatorial candidate, Uche Onyeagocha.

The party further alleged that the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Enugu was “jittery and disturbed” by the growing momentum of the opposition party. However, it said the alleged attacks would not stop it from mobilising support and participating in the 2027 general elections.

The statement added: “If the goal of those sponsoring these thugs and attacks is to instill fear in the hearts of the people, they have failed woefully. This cowardly act will only strengthen our resolve to canvass and mobilise for the party and its candidates across the board”.

The NDC called on security agencies to launch a thorough investigation into the incident and bring those responsible, as well as their alleged sponsors, to justice. “The NDC will not be cowed. We will continue to organise, mobilise, and defend the democratic space,” it said.