ENUGU: Former Labour Party presidential candidate and New Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has condemned political violence following the death of Christopher Nworie, who was reportedly killed during a thugs’ attack at the NDC governorship campaign flag-off in Enugu.
Obi, who spoke at Nworie’s ongoing burial ceremony, described his death as painful, questioning why anyone should lose their life because of an election.
The presidential candidate disclosed that he had immediately changed his travel plans to return to Nigeria from the United Kingdom to attend the burial, despite initially scheduling his return for the following day.
One day, we will all end up six feet underground. His death is painful. I was supposed to return tomorrow, but because of this burial, I immediately changed my ticket and returned to Nigeria from the UK last night, Obi said.
Expressing concern over the incident, Obi called for an end to political violence, urging politicians and their supporters to focus on issues affecting Nigerians rather than resorting to attacks and intimidation.
“We cannot continue like this. Someone died because of an election. Why not campaign based on issues? he asked.
The NDC presidential candidate also distanced himself from campaign tactics involving insults against political opponents, stressing that political engagement should be centred on policies and the needs of citizens.
“You cannot see me campaigning by insulting another party. I campaign based on issues that concern the people,” he stated.
Obi’s remarks underscore his appeal for peaceful political participation and issue-based campaigns as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The reported killing of Nworie during the campaign-related attack has brought renewed attention to the safety of political supporters, campaign participants and other citizens during electioneering activities.
Political campaigns are intended to provide opportunities for candidates and parties to present their programmes, explain their policy positions and engage voters on issues such as security, education, healthcare, employment and economic development.
The circumstances surrounding Nworie’s death and the alleged attack remain matters of public concern.
The incident also highlights calls for security agencies to investigate political violence and ensure that those found responsible are held accountable in accordance with the law.
