Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, on Friday attended the burial of one of his supporters who was killed during a violent political incident, using the occasion to call on politicians to reject violence ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Obi said he travelled from the United Kingdom and arrived at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, at about 5:30 a.m. before connecting the 7 a.m. Enugu Air flight to Enugu for the funeral of the late Ifeanyi Nwolie in Afa, Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State.
According to Obi, the deceased was among his supporters who participated in an NDC political activity on October 10, 2026, which turned violent after he was shot.
Describing the incident as heartbreaking, Obi said Nwolie’s death reflected the growing danger of political violence in Nigeria.
“Late Ifeanyi Nwolie was one of my supporters who participated in the recent NDC party political activity marred by violence on October 10, 2026. Tragically, he was shot. His death is a painful reminder of the devastating human cost of our nation’s current toxic political environment.”
The former Anambra State governor appealed to all candidates seeking elective offices in the 2027 elections to avoid violence, ethnic division and religious intolerance during their campaigns.
“As we approach the 2027 general elections, I appeal to all candidates contesting at the federal, state, and local government levels to reject violence, ethnic division, and religious bigotry. Our campaigns and activities must be based on issues that will make our country better.”
Obi stressed that democracy can only survive when citizens are free to support candidates of their choice without fear or intimidation.
“Democracy thrives when citizens can freely express their political choices and participate in the electoral process without fear. The process through which we attain public office is more important than the office itself.”
He also promised to support the deceased’s mother, saying he would stand by her as a son following the loss of Ifeanyi.
“My humble pledge to the mother is that God Almighty, whom it pleased to bring Ifeanyi home, has also given her another son in me to support her as Ifeanyi used to.”
Obi further called for respect for the rule of law, warning that any society where justice is weakened risks sliding into disorder and instability.
“A country’s greatest strength lies in the rule of law. When the rule of law is undermined, the door is opened to disorder and anarchy. We must work together to rebuild and restore a Nigeria where human life is valued above political ambition, and where every citizen can exercise their democratic rights in peace and safety.”
Political violence has remained a major concern in Nigeria, especially as political parties intensify preparations for the 2027 general elections. Several civil society organisations and election observers have repeatedly urged political leaders and their supporters to embrace peaceful campaigns and protect the country’s democratic process.
Obi ended his message with his familiar campaign slogan: “A New Nigeria is POssible.”
