One dead, three hurt as gunmen attack NDC candidate's convoy

At least one person has died and three others are injured after gunmen attacked the convoy of a House of Assembly candidate from the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Ebonyi State on Thursday.

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

Joshua Ukandu, the police spokesperson in Ebonyi State, shared the news in a statement on Friday.

Mr Ukandu, a superintendent of police, said the attack happened around 4:00 p.m. in Amaezekwe Community in Ezza South Local Government Area.

The police received a distress call about the shooting and quickly sent officers to the scene.

“Upon arrival, the officers found four people with gunshot wounds and a burnt vehicle,” he stated.

“One of the victims was confirmed dead at the hospital, while the other three are getting medical care,” he added.

Mr Offia-Nwali said in a statement on Thursday night that armed men shot at his convoy while he was returning from Amaezekwe Community.

“My Toyota Hilux was set on fire and completely burnt during the attack,” he said.

The NDC candidate expressed gratitude for his safety and thanked security operatives for their professionalism in protecting him and other travelers.

“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 stated. “The loss of human life is deeply regrettable, no matter the situation.”

Mr Offia-Nwali urged youths not to let themselves be used by people 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 for someone else's political ambition,” he said.

The politician, who is challenging Friday Ogbuewu of the ruling APC, promised he will not be intimidated out of the race.

“We are prepared to make the necessary sacrifices to serve our people, and I assure you that no amount of intimidation or violence will stop us from this path,” he stated.