The Coalition for Peter Obi (CPO) strongly condemns the disturbing attack on Comrade Noah Akpovegho, CPO Delta State Secretary, who was reportedly stabbed and is currently receiving medical attention at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC). Several other persons also sustained injuries during the incident.
We stand in solidarity with Comrade Noah, his family, our CPO Delta State Chapter, and everyone affected by this unfortunate incident. We wish him a speedy and complete recovery.
This incident raises serious concerns about the growing atmosphere of political intolerance, intimidation and violence in our country.
What kind of democracy are we building when political disagreements degenerate into physical attacks?
What message are political leaders sending when inflammatory rhetoric, threats and intimidation become part of our political environment?
Political leadership comes with responsibility. Words and actions of those in positions of authority can influence the conduct of their supporters. Political differences must never be used as justification for violence against citizens exercising their democratic rights.
Let it be clearly understood: Democracy is not a battlefield. Political opposition is not an offence. Supporting a candidate or belonging to a political movement must never become a death sentence.
CPO therefore demands:
- An immediate, thorough and impartial investigation into the attack on Comrade Noah Akpovegho and the other victims.
- The identification and prosecution of everyone found responsible for this criminal act.
- Adequate medical attention and support for all those injured.
- Concrete measures by security agencies to protect citizens and prevent further politically motivated violence.
- An end to inflammatory political statements, threats and actions capable of encouraging violence.
We call on political leaders across party lines to promote tolerance, restraint and peaceful political engagement. The security and lives of Nigerians must take precedence over political interests and ambitions.
No political ambition is worth the blood of any Nigerian. No disagreement justifies a dagger, a bullet or the taking of an innocent life.
CPO remains committed to peaceful democratic participation, the rule of law and a Nigeria where every citizen can freely express political opinions without fear of intimidation or attack.
ENOUGH IS ENOUGH! POLITICAL VIOLENCE MUST STOP! JUSTICE FOR COMRADE NOAH AKPOVEGHO AND ALL THE VICTIMS!
Signed:
Hon. Ikenna Mbanefo
National Coordinator
Coalition for Peter Obi (CPO)
A New Nigeria is Certainly Possible in 2027.