By Stephen Simon
The Enugu State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has denied allegations linking the party and Governor Peter Mbah’s administration to recent political violence in Nkanu West Local Government Area of the state.
The denial followed allegations by opposition parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), accusing the APC and the state government of sponsoring violence in the council area.
The allegations followed the disruption of ward meetings of the PDP and NDC in two wards of Nkanu West by alleged gun-wielding thugs. Some participants were reportedly injured, while canopies and chairs were also damaged during the incidents.
In a statement issued by the state Publicity Secretary, Uche Obute, on behalf of the APC State Chairman, Dr Martin Chukwunweike, the party described the allegations as misleading, unsubstantiated and politically motivated.
The APC said the accusations were inconsistent with what it described as the peaceful and democratic disposition of the party and the Mbah administration. It urged political actors to conduct their activities within the boundaries of civility and the rule of law.
The party said it was unfortunate that opposition actors had allegedly used an incident to create tension, damage reputations and undermine peace in the state. It also warned against the use of character assassination and misinformation as political tools.
The APC reaffirmed its support for Mbah’s development agenda and urged opposition parties and other political actors to embrace responsible political engagement, saying political competition should not be allowed to undermine peace and stability in Enugu State.
