Panic erupted in Lagos on Thursday after suspected political thugs stormed a town hall meeting organised by supporters of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, at Oregun, disrupting proceedings and forcing participants to flee.
The attackers, reportedly armed with cutlasses, cudgels and stones, invaded the venue while the meeting was ongoing, throwing the gathering into confusion.
Participants scrambled for safety as the assailants disrupted the event and scattered chairs and other items across the hall.
Witnesses said the sudden invasion triggered panic, with several attendees running in different directions to escape the attackers. The circumstances surrounding the assault, including what may have triggered it, remained unclear at the time of filing this report.
The attack comes amid growing concerns over political violence as parties intensify mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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The NDC has reportedly faced similar disruptions in other parts of the country, including Enugu State, where armed men attacked a party ward meeting in September.
The incident left two attendees injured, according to the police, while the state Commissioner of Police ordered an investigation into the attack.
More recently, suspected politically backed groups attacked NDC supporters during a campaign procession in Asaba, Delta State, on November 7, leaving one person dead and five others injured, according to the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data organisation.
The organisation also reported an attack on the NDC presidential candidate’s convoy in Calabar, Cross River State, during the same period.
The rising incidents have heightened concerns about the safety of political actors and supporters as the country approaches another general election. Attacks on political gatherings could also undermine citizens’ ability to participate freely in the democratic process.
As of the time of filing this report, there was no confirmed information on casualties or arrests in connection with Thursday’s attack in Oregun. The Lagos State Police Command had also not issued a statement on the incident. The circumstances surrounding the attack and the identities of those responsible remain unclear.
Daily Post
