Amnesty International has warned that attacks on political opposition supporters could threaten peaceful political participation in Nigeria following reports of violence at Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu State.
The incident involved supporters of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) who had gathered to welcome the party’s governorship candidate, Christian Chinyeaka Ohaa.
In a statement published on its verified Facebook account, Amnesty said videos circulating online showed people fleeing the scene amid allegations of gunfire and tear gas.
Some supporters claimed they were shot at and tear-gassed, while others accused security operatives of failing to intervene. Videos shared online reportedly showed people with bloodstained clothing, and several supporters were said to have been injured.
Amnesty condemned the alleged attack and warned that repeated violence and intimidation against opposition groups could restrict their ability to hold public gatherings and associate freely.
The organisation said the incident reflected a troubling pattern of alleged attacks on opposition members in different parts of the country.
It also raised concerns about the safety of political supporters and the protection of the rights to freedom of association and peaceful assembly in Nigeria.
You Might Also Like
