By David Ogbebor

CALABAR,— Tension reportedly erupted in Calabar, Cross River State, on Wednesday following an alleged attack attempt on the campaign convoy of former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, during his political visit to the state.

Obi’s media aide, Ester Umoh, raised the alarm in a social media post, alleging that some individuals were attempting to attack the convoy.

“Thugs are trying to attack our convoy,” Umoh stated.

The incident reportedly occurred around the Murtala Mohammed Highway, close to the U.J. Esuene Stadium, where Obi and members of his entourage were scheduled to attend a town hall meeting.

Reports also indicated that supporters of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) converged around the area during separate political activities, creating tension and raising fears of a possible confrontation.

The Cross River State Police Command reportedly deployed officers to the area to prevent a clash between the rival supporters.

Police spokesperson, ASP Sunday Eitokpah Akata, said security operatives intervened and appealed to the groups to maintain peace and exercise restraint.

The police intervention reportedly prevented the situation from escalating into a confrontation.

However, details surrounding the alleged attack on Obi’s convoy remained unclear as of the time of filing this report. There was no independently established confirmation of the identities of those allegedly involved, the extent of any damage or whether anyone sustained injuries.

While the police account focused on preventing a confrontation between supporters of the two political groups, Obi’s aide had separately raised concerns about the safety of the convoy.

The incident has renewed concerns about the safety of political candidates and their supporters during public engagements, particularly as political activities gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Security agencies have a responsibility to ensure that all political parties and candidates can freely conduct lawful activities without intimidation, harassment or violence.

Political parties and their supporters must also exercise restraint and respect the rights of others to participate in the democratic process.

As of Wednesday evening, further clarification on the alleged convoy attack was still being awaited.