Enugu APC, NDC Clash Over Venue Controversy During Peter Obi’s Visit

The Enugu State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed the political strength of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in the state, describing the party as having little influence following a controversy over a town hall meeting organised for its presidential candidate, Peter Obi.

The APC also accused the NDC of making unfounded allegations against the Enugu State Government over claims that the party was denied access to the venue booked for the event.

The controversy emerged last week, hours before Obi’s visit to Enugu, when the NDC camp alleged that the state government had directed the owners of the venue to prevent the party from using the facility for its town hall meeting.

Although the event eventually took place, the venue owners reportedly disputed the NDC’s account, claiming that the facility had not been booked directly by the party but through a medical organisation.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Steve Oruruo, spokesperson and Director of Public Communications of the Enugu APC Campaign Council, accused the NDC of spreading what he described as misleading allegations aimed at tarnishing the image of the state government.

Oruruo said the allegations were unnecessary and could create confusion among residents, arguing that the explanation provided by the venue management had raised questions about the circumstances surrounding the booking.

According to the APC spokesman, a medical practitioner, Dr Sabastine Chuks Eze, initially approached the facility’s management, identifying himself as the Registrar of the Nigeria Institute of Healthcare Givers and Medical Social Work Practitioners.

He alleged that Eze had accepted the management’s conditions, including its authority to discontinue activities that violated the terms of engagement, before the arrangement allegedly became a contract involving the NDC for Obi’s town hall meeting.

Oruruo also accused Ada Ogbu and other NDC members of attempting to mislead the public with allegations against the state government that he described as unsubstantiated.

He questioned whether the party’s conduct reflected the principles of integrity and morality frequently associated with Obi’s public image.

The APC spokesman further dismissed the NDC’s political standing in Enugu, claiming that the party had yet to establish a significant presence in the state.

He maintained that the party largely attracts public attention when it criticises the state government or Governor Peter Mbah.

Oruruo also argued that attempts to associate the state government with unverified allegations were inconsistent with the prevailing political atmosphere and security situation in Enugu State.

The APC subsequently called on Ada Ogbu to apologise to residents over the allegations, insisting that political disagreements should not be used to damage the reputation of the state.

Despite the criticism, Oruruo said the 2027 general elections should focus on policy proposals, ideas and the ability of political parties to deliver on their promises.

He added that Enugu remained peaceful and welcoming to political activities.

Obi Promises Direct Action Against Insecurity

Meanwhile, Obi has pledged to take a direct role in tackling insecurity and rescuing kidnapped Nigerians if elected president in 2027.

Speaking during the NDC town hall meeting in Enugu State on Thursday, the former Anambra State governor criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration, arguing that Nigeria needed a leader willing to take personal responsibility for addressing the country’s security challenges.

Obi said he would be prepared to join security efforts in difficult terrain if necessary to rescue abducted citizens.

“If there is a general bush, I will be in that bush with them,” he said.

He further promised to prioritise national unity and security, stressing that his administration would take a more direct approach to combating kidnapping and other security threats.

“As President of Nigeria, I will unite Nigeria. As President of Nigeria, I will secure Nigeria. We will deal with insecurity. I will not be president and somebody will kidnap our children; we will enter the bush together,” Obi stated.

His remarks form part of his broader campaign message ahead of the 2027 presidential election, with security expected to remain a major issue in the political debate.