Deprecated: Function WP_Dependencies->add_data() was called with an argument that is deprecated since version 6.9.0! IE conditional comments are ignored by all supported browsers. in /home/corerepo/public_html/wp-includes/functions.php on line 6260 NDC Accuses Mbah Administration of Shielding Suspects, Targeting Obuoffia Attack Witness - Core Reporters
Enugu (Core Reporters) — The opposition Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) in Enugu State has accused the administration of Governor Peter Mbah of shielding suspected political thugs allegedly involved in the September 12 shooting at an NDC ward meeting in Obuoffia Awkunanaw, Nkanu West Local Government Area.
The party also alleged that state machinery was being used to prosecute a key eyewitness who reportedly recorded video footage of the attack.
In a statement made available to journalists on Tuesday, the NDC described the state government’s response to reports of arrests linked to the incident as “desperate” and questioned why the administration would allegedly move to defend suspects rather than demand justice for victims of the attack.
The party alleged that NDC members were attacked and shot during a ward meeting, with properties also destroyed, but claimed that the state government did not provide adequate support to the victims.
The NDC further alleged that the authorities’ subsequent actions amounted to an attempt to intimidate or silence witnesses to the incident.
According to the party, a member identified as Ani Samuel Chidi, whom it also referred to as Chidi Ezeani, was arraigned on October 5, 2026, before Chief Magistrate Sir F. E. Chukwu at the Enugu East Magistrate Court.
The party alleged that the 45-year-old was charged with three counts relating to criminal defamation and cybercrime under Section 24(2)(a) and (c)(i) of the Cybercrime Act over the publication of video footage of the attack on social media platforms.
It further alleged that Chidi was remanded in custody following the arraignment, while those suspected by the party of involvement in the attack had been released.
The NDC called on the Nigeria Police Force to conduct an independent investigation into the September 12 incident and urged the authorities to ensure that witnesses and victims were not subjected to intimidation.
The party also called on Governor Mbah to ensure that due process was followed in handling both the attack and subsequent legal proceedings.
The NDC’s allegations come amid continuing controversy over the circumstances surrounding the Obuoffia incident, including the status of suspects reportedly arrested in connection with the violence and the subsequent prosecution of a person said to have recorded the incident.
The party urged security agencies and other relevant authorities to establish the facts surrounding the attack and ensure that all persons found culpable are dealt with according to law.
