In a shocking incident just two days before the Nigerian Senate election, Bar Oyibo Chukwu, the senatorial candidate for Enugu East under the Labour Party (LP), was shot and killed by unidentified gunmen.
Chukwu was reportedly traveling in his vehicle when the attackers struck, setting the vehicle ablaze and killing several of his supporters in the process. The incident is believed to have been carried out by suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), a separatist group active in the southeastern region of Nigeria.
Chukwu’s death has sent shockwaves throughout the Nigerian political scene, with many expressing their outrage and calling for an end to the violence that has marred the election season. The LP has issued a statement condemning the attack and calling for the authorities to investigate and bring the perpetrators to justice.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of our candidate, Bar Oyibo Chukwu, and his supporters in this senseless act of violence,” the LP statement read. “We urge the authorities to spare no effort in bringing those responsible to justice, and we call on all parties to respect the sanctity of human life and the democratic process.”
This is not the first incident of election-related violence in Enugu State. Earlier in the day, supporters of Rt. Hon Ofor Chukwuegbo, another senatorial candidate in the state, were also attacked on the Amaechi-Agbani road. While Chukwuegbo’s supporters escaped with injuries, the attack on Chukwu’s convoy proved fatal.
The Nigerian police have yet to make any arrests in connection with the incidents, but they have assured the public that they are doing everything in their power to bring the situation under control and ensure a peaceful and fair election.
The violence has once again highlighted the need for greater security measures and better protection for candidates and their supporters during election season in Nigeria. The country has a long history of election-related violence, with dozens of people killed in previous incidents. The government and security agencies have a responsibility to ensure that citizens are able to exercise their right to vote without fear of violence or intimidation.
As the country prepares for the Senate election, it is more important than ever to work towards creating a safe and secure environment for all participants in the electoral process. The killing of Bar Oyibo Chukwu is a tragic reminder of the high stakes involved in this election and the need for a peaceful and democratic outcome.
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