A meeting of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Ejule, Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State, was thrown into confusion following an attack by suspected political thugs, leaving one party member injured.
The incident reportedly occurred while the meeting was in progress, forcing participants and other residents to flee the venue for safety after several shots were allegedly fired into the air.
One of the party members was said to have sustained injuries during the ensuing stampede and confusion. He was subsequently taken to a nearby hospital, where he is reportedly receiving medical attention.
The identities and affiliations of those allegedly responsible for the attack remained unknown as of the time of filing this report. No official confirmation had also been given on the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The development has renewed concerns about security in Ofu Local Government Area, which has witnessed politically related violence in the past, particularly around election periods.
In 2019, Salome Abuh, then Kogi State PDP Women Leader, was reportedly killed by being burnt in her residence at Ochadamu in Ofu LGA during the period of the state governorship election.
Some residents who spoke on the incident expressed concern over the latest development and urged security agencies to take immediate steps to prevent a recurrence of politically motivated violence in the area.
They also called on political parties, candidates and their supporters to conduct their activities peacefully as preparations intensify for the 2027 general elections.
The residents further urged the security agencies to investigate the incident, identify those responsible and ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to justice.
Meanwhile, Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has called on political parties, candidates, supporters and other stakeholders to embrace peace, tolerance and responsible participation as political activities gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Governor’s appeal was conveyed by his Special Adviser on Electronic Media, Hon. Yusuf Adebayo Ohiare, who urged political actors and citizens to shun thuggery, hate speech, intimidation and other actions capable of threatening the peace and security of the state.
Ododo stressed that political contests should be centred on ideas, development and service to the people rather than violence, destruction or activities that could deepen division among the people.
He also urged stakeholders to respect one another, uphold the rule of law and ensure that citizens are allowed to exercise their democratic rights freely and peacefully as the state approaches another electoral season.
The Governor maintained that preserving the peace and stability of Kogi State is a collective responsibility, calling on every political party, candidate, supporter and citizen to ensure that political differences do not undermine the unity and progress of the state.
He reiterated that Kogi must continue to be a state where peace, democracy and development thrive, urging all stakeholders to work together towards achieving a peaceful electoral process.