[From OUR POLITICAL DESK, Abakaliki}
Professor Benard Ifeanyi Odoh, the NDC Senatorial Candidate for Ebonyi Central District, has strongly condemned the reported violent attack on Barrister Rollins Nwali, the NDC House of Assembly candidate for Ezza South State Constituency, and his campaign team on Thursday, October 22, 2026. He characterized this alleged incident as a direct assault on democracy in Nigeria.
Professor Odoh stated that Barrister Nwali and his team were reportedly ambushed by armed attackers while engaging in legitimate political consultations. During the attack, a Toyota Hilux belonging to Nwali’s campaign was set on fire, but the quick response from Department of State Services (DSS) personnel helped prevent further harm to the team members.
In a press release issued by the professor, he noted that there are reports indicating that some of the assailants may have died during the confrontation. He emphasized that the event signals a serious threat to political freedom, public safety, and the democratic process in Ebonyi State.
“Let me be perfectly clear: Political disagreement does not justify violence. Electoral competition should never serve as a pretext for bloodshed, intimidation, or destruction of lives and property.
“To anyone considering further violence against our candidates, supporters, or campaign operations, my message is straightforward: stop immediately. Violence has serious and often deadly repercussions, and every threat will be recorded, reported to authorities, and pursued legally until those accountable are brought to justice.
“We will not stay silent while our candidates and supporters are subjected to violence and intimidation. We will demand their protection, exercise our constitutional rights, and seek justice without resorting to illegal actions.
“I urge the Inspector-General of Police, the Director-General of the DSS, and relevant security agencies to conduct an immediate, independent, and thorough investigation into this incident, including any credible evidence of political involvement. Those responsible, along with their sponsors, must be identified and prosecuted according to the law.
“I also call for adequate security measures to protect Barrister Rollins Nwali, his campaign team, and other political candidates facing credible threats throughout Ebonyi State.
“No political ambition is worth a human life. No electoral position justifies the bloodshed of innocent citizens. And no democracy can thrive when violence dictates who can partake in the process.
“Our thoughts are with all impacted by this incident. We remain dedicated to peaceful political engagement, upholding the law, and protecting every citizen, regardless of their political affiliation,” stated Professor Odoh, with a serious demeanor.
He concluded by asserting that Ebonyi State belongs to the Ndi-Ebonyi people, and its political future should be determined through the ballot, not through violence.
