RismadarVoice Reporters
October 11, 2026
The Enugu State Government has denied involvement in Saturday’s incidents involving the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport and the party’s state secretariat, insisting that security agencies are responsible for investigating the disturbances.
The Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, made the clarification during a press conference at the Government House, Enugu, on Sunday.
Onyia said the state government had been unfairly linked to the October 10 incidents, maintaining that the confrontation at the airport involved NDC supporters and federal airport authorities.
According to him, inquiries conducted by the government indicated that the party had announced plans for a statewide campaign event at the airport and invited supporters and members of the public to attend.
He said security agencies had advised the party to obtain approval from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) before mobilising supporters to the airport.
The SSG alleged that the party proceeded with the gathering without securing the necessary authorisation, despite warnings from security officials.
He explained that attempts by party supporters to enter the airport reportedly resulted in a confrontation with airport authorities, prompting security personnel to intervene and disperse the crowd.
Onyia maintained that the account was consistent with information released by the Enugu State Police Command.
GOVT CONFIRMS GUNSHOT INJURY AT NDC SECRETARIAT
Addressing the separate incident at the NDC state secretariat, Onyia confirmed that a violent confrontation occurred at the party’s office on Saturday.
He identified the injured person as 43-year-old Ifeanyi Nworie, who reportedly sustained a gunshot wound during the disturbance.
According to the government, Nworie was initially taken to the Enugu State University Teaching Hospital, Park Lane, before being transferred to the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Enugu, for further treatment.
The SSG said police investigations were ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify those responsible.
He also disputed reports suggesting that people had been killed, stating that available security information indicated no confirmed fatalities.
The government’s account of the incident and its denial of responsibility remain its stated position as investigations continue.
ENUGU GOVT WARNS AGAINST POLITICAL VIOLENCE
Onyia reiterated the administration’s opposition to politically motivated violence, stressing that residents should be able to exercise their constitutional rights without intimidation.
He said Governor Peter Mbah’s administration remained committed to protecting lives and property, irrespective of political affiliation, religion or other differences.
The SSG described peace and security as essential to the government’s economic development agenda, including its ambition to build a $30 billion state economy.
He said the administration had continued investing in security infrastructure and other measures intended to protect residents, businesses and investments.
Onyia also urged political parties, candidates and supporters to avoid confrontations capable of disrupting public peace ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He emphasised that freedom of association, political participation and peaceful assembly must be exercised responsibly and in accordance with applicable laws.
The government called on political stakeholders to prioritise issue-based campaigns, peaceful engagement and respect for democratic institutions.
Meanwhile, investigations into the airport confrontation and the violence at the NDC secretariat remain ongoing, with responsibility for the incidents yet to be conclusively established.
