The Cross River State Police Command has arrested a 27-year-old man following an attack on the convoy of Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), and party supporters in Calabar.
Titiansloaded reports that the incident occurred on Wednesday as Obi arrived in the state capital for the NDC presidential town hall meeting scheduled to take place at Metropolitan Hotel.
The procession was reportedly moving through the city, accompanied by cheering supporters, when suspected political thugs attacked the convoy around Watt Market.
The assailants allegedly hurled stones, bottles and other dangerous objects at vehicles and party members, leaving several people injured and causing damage to vehicles and valuables.
The attack triggered panic in the area, forcing supporters to flee for safety. Traffic movement and business activities were also temporarily disrupted.
Police officers intervened to disperse the attackers and restore order, while a suspect was taken into custody.
The Police Public Relations Officer in Cross River, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, confirmed the arrest in a statement issued to journalists in Calabar.
He identified the suspect as Victor Edet Yellow-Duke, 27, and said investigations were ongoing to apprehend other people involved in the attack and determine whether anyone sponsored the incident.
“NDC supporters under heavy attack in Watt Market. The police have made an arrest to this effect. The suspect’s name is Victor Edet Yellow Duke, male, 27 years,” Eitokpah said.
The police assured residents that calm had returned to the affected area, adding that security had been reinforced at strategic locations across Calabar to prevent further disturbances.
Despite the attack, Obi continued to Metropolitan Hotel for the scheduled town hall meeting, where he was expected to interact with party members and other stakeholders on his political agenda ahead of the 2027 general elections
