By Myke Uzendu, Abuja
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has condemned reported attacks on its Cross River State campaign team during its consultations tour across the state, calling on security agencies to investigate the incident and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
The party said the alleged attack, which reportedly involved armed thugs who vandalised vehicles, fired sporadically and injured several supporters, threatened democratic participation and the right of political parties to engage freely with voters.
In a statement issued on Monday and signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Jungudo Haruna Mohammed, the PDP urged relevant authorities to take urgent measures to prevent a breakdown of law and order in the state.
The party also expressed concern over allegations that the attack was sponsored by the Cross River State governor, although it provided no evidence in the statement to substantiate the allegation.
The PDP said the governor should focus on addressing public concerns about his administration’s performance rather than resorting to what it described as intimidation of opposition figures.
The opposition party questioned the state government’s record of project delivery, alleging that the administration had yet to demonstrate convincing evidence of major projects initiated and completed since assuming office.
According to the PDP, some projects presented as achievements amounted largely to the repainting of existing structures.
The party challenged the governor to account for the financial resources accruing to Cross River State, insisting that residents deserved to know how public funds had been utilised and the benefits delivered to communities.
It maintained that public resources should translate into visible development, improved infrastructure, employment opportunities and better living conditions for residents.
“Public office is a trust bestowed by the people and not a personal entitlement to be retained by any means,” the party said.
The PDP further argued that Cross River State needed a new direction and leadership that prioritised residents’ welfare over partisan interests.
It said its candidates were engaging with communities, listening to concerns and presenting an alternative vision for the state’s future.
Despite the reported attack, the party declared that it would not be intimidated into abandoning its political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.
It pledged to continue consulting with residents, promoting democratic participation and defending the rights of its candidates and supporters.
The PDP also appealed to residents to remain peaceful and law-abiding, urging them to participate actively in the 2027 elections.
It called on political actors to exercise restraint and avoid actions capable of triggering violence in the state.
The party specifically urged security agencies to investigate the reported incident promptly, professionally and impartially, protect political stakeholders and prevent a recurrence.
It added that anyone found responsible should be held accountable in accordance with the law, regardless of political affiliation or position.
The PDP reaffirmed its commitment to what it described as the people’s quest for accountable leadership and improved development in Cross River State.
