Enugu Government Accuses Opposition of Plot to Import Thugs Before 2027 Polls

The Enugu State Government said on Sunday it had uncovered an alleged plot by opposition elements to import armed thugs and bandits into the state to manufacture insecurity ahead of the 2027 general elections. Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, made the accusation at a press conference in Government House.

Onyia denied any government or Chief Security Officer Ifeanyi Osondu involvement in Saturday's separate incidents involving the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport and the party's state secretariat. He described the airport clash as a matter between the NDC and federal authorities, while the secretariat shooting remains under police investigation.

“Further findings, however, revealed that the NDC did not secure the approval of FAAN to host a grand statewide rally at its facility. Security agencies, therefore, advised the organisers of the rally to rethink it.”

According to Onyia, the airport confrontation followed the NDC's attempt to hold a "Grand Statewide Campaign Flag-off 2026" at the facility without securing approval from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). Police had advised the party to obtain clearance before deploying security personnel, but the NDC allegedly mobilised supporters and attempted forced entry.

Security agencies intervened to disperse what Onyia called "riotous" party members and restore order around the airport, designated a strategic national asset. Onyia stated the government's findings align with the Enugu State Police Command's statement on the incidents.