TDThe National Democratic Congress (NDC) primary election in Ishielu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State was violently disrupted today by thugs believed to be sent by members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.
The attack raised serious concerns about democratic freedoms and constitutional rights in Nigeria.
According to a press statement issued by Dr. Peter Okey, a member of the NDC Diaspora in the United Kingdom, the primary election had been duly scheduled and communicated to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and relevant security agencies.
Party members gathered peacefully at the NDC Secretariat in Resthouse, Ntezi, Ishielu LGA, to participate in what was expected to be a legitimate democratic exercise.
Allegations of Political Interference by Ebonyi State Government
Reports from party members allege that the Chairman of Ishielu LGA, Mrs. Ifeoma Agwu, directed that the NDC should not conduct its primary election anywhere within the local government.
Further accusations point to Mr. Frank Aloh, Coordinator of Ishielu East Development Centre.
Aloh allegedly mobilised thugs to the Secretariat.
Witnesses claim that members, including elderly women, were threatened, intimidated, and eventually dispersed.
Dr. Okey stated that at approximately 8:42 a.m., he personally contacted Mr. Aloh to urge restraint.
However, Aloh allegedly admitted he was acting on directives from the Ebonyi State Government and went on to threaten Okey, referencing past political disputes.
Shortly afterward, party members were chased away from the venue.
A Threat to Democracy in Ebonyi and Calls for Action
The statement described the incident as a “dangerous assault on democratic principles, political freedom, and the constitutional rights of citizens.”
Dr. Okey warned that if such actions go unchecked, they could erode Nigeria’s democracy and silence opposition voices.
Dr. Okey urged the Inspector General of Police and other security agencies to investigate the matter and hold those responsible accountable.
He also called on INEC to take official notice of the disruption.
He also appealed to human rights organisations, civil society groups, and the international community to monitor developments in Ebonyi State ahead of the 2027 elections.
The disruption of the NDC primary election in Ishielu LGA underscores the fragile state of Nigeria’s democracy.
Opposition parties often face intimidation and suppression in the country.
As Dr. Okey emphasized, “No government official or political actor should place themselves above the Constitution or use intimidation to deny citizens their lawful rights.”
