One killed, three injured as gunmen attack NDC candidate’s convoy

At least one person has been confirmed dead and three others injured on Thursday when gunmen attacked the convoy of a House of Assembly candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Ebonyi State.

The candidate, Rollins Offia-Nwali is seeking to represent Ezza South Constituency in the state assembly.

The police spokesperson in Ebonyi State, Joshua Ukandu, disclosed this in a statement on Friday.

Mr Ukandu, a superintendent of police, said the incident happened at about 4:00 p.m. in Amaezekwe Community in Ezza South Local Government Area of the South-eastern state.

The police spokesperson said the state command received a distress call about the attack in the community and immediately deployed operatives to the scene.

“Upon arrival, the operatives found four individuals with gunshot wounds and a burnt vehicle.

“One of the victims was confirmed dead at the hospital, while the three others are receiving medical treatment,” he said.

Mr Offia-Nwali said in a statement on Thursday night that the armed hoodlums opened fire on his convoy while he was returning from Amazekewe Community.

“My Toyota Hilux was set ablaze and completely burnt in the attack,” he said.

The NDC candidate thanked God that he was safe and appreciated security operatives for their professionalism and gallantry for ensuring his safety and other travellers.

“I have also been informed that there were casualties among those who carried out the attack.

“My heartfelt sympathy goes out to those affected and their families,” he said. “Regardless of the circumstances, the loss of human life is deeply regrettable.”

Mr Offia-Nwali appealed to youths not to allow themselves to be used by individuals desperate for political power.

“No political ambition is worth the life of any young person, and no young person should have to lose their life in pursuit of another person’s political ambition,” he stated.

The politician, who is seeking to unseat Friday Ogbuewu of the ruling APC, vowed never to be intimidated out of the assembly race.

“As for us, we are prepared to make the sacrifices necessary to serve our people, and I assure you that no amount of intimidation or violence will deter us from this course,” he said.