The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has condemned the “cowardly violent attack” on Atiku Abubakar’s campaign train in Maiduguri, the Borno capital, Njenje Media News reports.
The opposition alleged that the Wednesday incident was carried out by armed thugs “sponsored by the disconcerted All Progressives Congress (APC)”.
A statement by National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba said the motorcade made its way into Maiduguri amidst thunderous cheers.
The spokesperson noted that the ruling APC was frustrated, bitter and envious of the overwhelming popularity of the PDP and Atiku.
Ologunagba said the party has information about how agents of certain APC leaders mobilized hoodlums to escalate violence.
The plot, he asserted, was to stop the PDP from holding its rally, adding tha over 70 persons were injured and hospitalised.
“Hundreds of APC’s armed thugs stationed at major roundabouts and intersections in Maiduguri unleashed violence on the PDP convoy and innocent citizens. This attack is consistent with APC’s habitual resort to violence in the face of rejection as also witnessed in the attack on the PDP rally in Kaduna State on October 17.”
Oogunagba said APC’s “barbaric” behaviour is contrary to the Peace Accord signed on September 28 and constitutes danger to democracy, the electoral process and the 2023 elections.
The PDP commended “the brave and courageous people of Borno” for resisting “the APC thugs” and ensuring the success of Atiku’s rally.
