Peter Obi’s campaign convoy reportedly attacked in Calabar

The campaign convoy of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has reportedly come under attack by suspected political thugs in Calabar, Cross River State, raising fresh concerns over the safety of political candidates and their supporters ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The incident was disclosed on Wednesday by Ester Umoh, a media aide to the former Anambra State governor, who raised the alarm in a social media post.

“Thugs are trying to attack our convoy,” Umoh wrote, although she did not immediately provide details about the location of the incident, the number of people involved or whether anyone was injured.

The reported attack occurred shortly after Obi arrived in Calabar alongside his wife, Margaret, and his running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, for a town hall meeting as part of the party’s political engagements in the state.

The circumstances surrounding the incident remained unclear as of the time of reporting. There was no immediate information on whether security personnel attached to the campaign team intervened or whether any arrests had been made.

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The development has renewed attention on security concerns surrounding Obi’s political activities, particularly following a similar incident involving his convoy in Benue State about two months ago.

During that incident, suspected thugs reportedly blocked Boko Road, near the Air Force Base, in an attempt to prevent the former governor and his entourage from gaining access into the state.

The reported incidents have raised questions about the security arrangements for political campaigns and the ability of candidates to move freely while engaging supporters across the country.

Political campaigns and public engagements are expected to provide opportunities for candidates to present their programmes, interact with voters and explain their positions on national issues.

However, attacks, threats and attempts to obstruct campaign activities could undermine political participation and heighten tensions among supporters of rival political groups.

There was no immediate response from the Cross River State Police Command or the state government regarding Wednesday’s reported incident.

Further details are expected to clarify the circumstances of the alleged attack, whether there were casualties and what steps security agencies may take to prevent a recurrence.