Police Step In as APC and NDC Supporters Clash in C'River

Supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) clashed in Calabar on Wednesday. This increased tension in the Cross River State capital as the 2027 general elections approach.

The clash happened near the U.J. Esuene Stadium and later in front of the Metropolitan Hotel, Calabar. It caused traffic jams and halted business activities for several hours as both parties argued fiercely.

Both parties were holding different political rallies in Calabar when their supporters met on the busy Murtala Mohammed Highway. This led to arguments that disrupted traffic.

But the Cross River State Police Command quickly took control of the situation.

ASP Sunday Eitokpah, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, confirmed the incident in a statement to journalists. He said the police's quick response and engagement helped prevent a likely fight between those at a presidential town hall meeting organized by the NDC at the Metropolitan Hotel and APC supporters who were rallying towards the Governor’s Office.

The police stated that when both groups gathered in front of the Metropolitan Hotel, officers immediately stepped in. They asked everyone to stay calm, keep the peace, and conduct their activities legally.

The statement noted, “The Cross River State Police Command, through timely intervention and constructive engagement, helped avert a possible confrontation between participants at a presidential town hall meeting organized by the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) at Metropolitan Hotel, Calabar, and a group of supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) undertaking a rally/road walk towards the Governor’s Office.”

Police officers also urged all sides to exercise restraint and maintain peace during their activities.

Normalcy returned to the area after police intervention. The police called on political parties and their supporters to avoid violence and promote peaceful campaigns as the 2027 elections get closer.