The Enugu State Police Command has reportedly released some suspects arrested in connection with the alleged attack on members of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) during a ward meeting in Obuoffia, Nkanu West Local Government Area, while detaining an NDC member who recorded footage of the incident.
The development has triggered fresh controversy, with the opposition party accusing the police of releasing people it described as suspected political attackers while taking action against a member who documented the violence.
The incident dates back to September 12, 2026, when armed men allegedly disrupted an NDC ward meeting at Ihuani Awkunanaw in Obuoffia. The police had earlier confirmed that gunmen fired sporadically during the gathering, with at least two people initially reported injured. The NDC later said eight of its members sustained gunshot injuries.
The police subsequently arrested several suspects, including traditional ruler Igwe Obiora Igwesi, his brother and former House of Representatives member U.S.A. Igwesi, as well as eight others. They were questioned over allegations including attempted murder, unlawful possession of firearms, assault and other offences.
However, the NDC has now alleged that the suspects were released while one of its members, identified as Ani Samuel Chidi, was detained after allegedly recording and sharing video footage of the attack.
According to reports, Chidi, 45, was arraigned before an Enugu East Magistrate Court on October 5 over allegations bordering on cybercrime and criminal defamation. The charges reportedly relate to videos and claims he published about the September 12 attack.
The NDC has described the development as troubling, alleging that the member was being targeted because he captured evidence of the attack. The party has called for an independent investigation into both the original shooting and the subsequent arrest of its member.
The police have not established publicly that the alleged attackers were members or supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and the claims of political sponsorship remain allegations requiring further investigation.
The controversy comes as political tensions continue to rise in Enugu ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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