The Enugu State police command has confirmed two separate attacks on the members and supporters of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) during a grassroots meeting in Nkanu West local government area.
The state police commissioner, Mamman Giwa, who confirmed the attacks in a statement issued through the command's spokesperson, SP Daniel Ndukwe, ordered an investigation into the two separate incidents.
The incidents which occurred on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at Ndiuno-Obuoffia community and St. Joseph Primary School, Agbani, involved disruption of political gatherings.
According to the statement, CP Giwa directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to “thoroughly investigate” the incidents and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to book.
SaharaReporters had earlier reported that gunmen attacked members and supporters of the NDC during a grassroots meeting at Obuoffia Ward in Nkanu West.
A disturbing video posted online by activist Chuks Eric showed the moment armed men stormed the gathering while party members were singing and listening to a speaker campaigning for the NDC.
At least one person was reportedly shot during the attack, according to eyewitness accounts contained in the video seen by SaharaReporters.
The incident occurred as the speaker was educating residents on how to identify and vote for the NDC by recognising the party’s logo.
In the video, the gathering could also be heard chanting that the NDC was for the South-East shortly before the attackers arrived and disrupted the meeting.
However, the police said its information indicated that the Ndiuno-Obuoffia incident involved “armed hoodlums” who disrupted an NDC ward meeting with “sporadic shooting”, resulting in injuries to two attendees.
The Command said a second incident was recorded at St. Joseph Primary School, Agbani, where “hoodlums also allegedly destroyed canopies and chairs prepared for a PDP rally.”
According to the police, operatives were immediately deployed to both locations after receiving reports of the incidents.
“Police operatives were promptly deployed to both scenes upon receipt of the reports to prevent further breaches and track down the fleeing suspects,” the statement said.
The Command, however, said the organisers of both gatherings did not notify the police ahead of the events.
The police specifically stated that there was “no prior notification or request for police security coverage for either gathering.”
The Commissioner warned that political activities in the state must be conducted peacefully and within the confines of the law.
“CP Giwa reiterates the position he conveyed during his meeting with leaders of political parties in the State that all political activities must be conducted peacefully and in accordance with the law,” the statement said.
Giwa also warned political parties, candidates, supporters and other political stakeholders against acts capable of triggering violence or disrupting the electoral process.
“He stressed that electoral offences remain punishable under the law,” the statement added.
The Commissioner further warned stakeholders against “violence, intimidation, destruction of property or any conduct capable of disrupting public peace and the electoral process.”
He urged political parties to cooperate with the police by informing the Command before organising political activities.
“The Commissioner urges political parties and stakeholders to promptly notify the Police of their campaigns, meetings, rallies and other gatherings to facilitate appropriate security arrangements,” the statement said.
The police boss also assured residents that the Command would continue to provide security for lawful political activities across the state.
“He assures the public that the Command will continue to maintain a peaceful and secure environment for lawful political activities,” the statement said.
Giwa further vowed that the police would take action against individuals who violate the law during political activities.
The Commissioner said the Command would “deal decisively with anyone who violates the law.”
The latest incidents come amid increased political activities and grassroots mobilisation in Enugu State, with political parties holding meetings and rallies ahead of the 2027 elections.
The police said its investigation into the two incidents would determine the circumstances surrounding the attacks and disruption and help ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.