The Cross River State Police Command has taken into custody a 27-year-old man, Victor Edet Yellow Duke, in connection with the assault on the convoy of Peter Obi, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, in Calabar.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, near the Watt Market Roundabout and allegedly damaged the windshields of several vehicles in Obi’s convoy.
The attack occurred at approximately 2:20 p.m., as the convoy was en route from the Obong of Calabar’s palace back to the Metropolitan Hotel, where the party was holding its presidential town hall meeting.
Police reports indicate that suspected hoodlums armed with machetes and sticks emerged from Calabar Road and Clerks Alley to attack the convoy’s vehicles, breaking their windshields.
As of press time, the precise number of vehicles affected had not been confirmed.
Police officers responded promptly, using tear gas to disperse the assailants and apprehending one suspect, while others escaped.
The Violent Crime Response Unit later transferred the suspect to State Police Headquarters for further investigation and to prevent potential retaliation.
Authorities stated that order had been restored in the vicinity.
Commissioner of Police Ajo Geoffrey Ordue has ordered a thorough investigation to identify and apprehend others involved in the attack and clarify the circumstances.
The Command emphasised that the arrest does not imply guilt and reminded the public that the suspect is presumed innocent until investigations conclude and legal proceedings occur.
Residents, political actors, and visitors were assured that robust security measures are in place to protect lives and property and to ensure peaceful political activities across the state. The Command reiterated its commitment to offering equal security protection to all political parties, candidates, and their supporters, regardless of affiliation.
Despite the attack, Obi continued with the town hall meeting, vowing to address insecurity, kidnapping, and corruption, and pledging to prioritise national unity, education, healthcare, and citizens’ welfare if elected.
He said Nigeria’s lack of national unity has undermined its ability to address insecurity effectively.o uniting Nigeria. As it stands, the country is divided. By achieving unity, we will gain the strength needed to combat insecurity,” Obi stated.
Addressing kidnapping and attacks on schoolchildren, the former Anambra State governor pledged that his administration would relentlessly pursue perpetrators, even into their hideouts.
“Anyone who kidnaps schoolchildren and flees into the bush will be pursued and apprehended, no matter where they hide. We fear no one,” he asserted.
Obi also pledged to tackle corruption directly, saying public funds should serve the people’s interests, not personal gain.
“We will wage an uncompromising war against corruption. It is time to end the theft of public funds—these resources should benefit the public and improve people’s welfare,” he declared.
He committed to increasing investment in education and healthcare, describing both as vital to national progress.
The NDC candidate stated that his political alliance represents a new style of governance based on collective responsibility and national transformation. “The vision of a new, possible Nigeria—one with a style of governance never before witnessed in the country,” Obi said.
Obi said the town hall meeting gave residents a platform to ask questions, voice concerns, and discuss issues affecting them.
“We are here to listen to you. Feel free to ask any questions or make comments—there are no restrictions,” he noted.
