Violence broke out at the national convention of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, in Abuja on Saturday when supporters of Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso clashed, leaving at least five persons injured.
The incident occurred around the convention venue in the Central Area as thousands of delegates, stakeholders, and supporters converged for the party’s first triennial national convention. Eyewitnesses said the clash started after an altercation between groups chanting solidarity songs for Obi and members of the Kwankwasiyya movement, which quickly escalated into physical confrontation.
Security agents deployed to the venue managed the incident quickly and restored order. “Security operatives were on ground and moved in immediately to separate the fighting groups,” a witness at the scene said.
At least five persons sustained injuries during the scuffle before security personnel intervened. The injured were reportedly attended to by medical personnel at the venue.
Despite the clash, the convention continued, with vehicular movement along Ahmadu Bello Way and adjoining roads brought to a near standstill due to the massive turnout. Long queues of vehicles stretched across major access roads while commuters and residents struggled to navigate the crowded area as political activities intensified.
Traditional dance troupes entertained attendees and created a carnival-like mood as delegates, party officials, and observers continued to arrive from across the country. Traders also occupied road shoulders and open spaces around the venue to sell food, drinks, party souvenirs, and other items to supporters and guests.
During the gathering, the NDC formally zoned its 2027 presidential ticket to Southern Nigeria for a single four-year term. The resolution was adopted after delegates unanimously backed a motion moved by Afam Victor Ogene, the lawmaker representing Ogbaru Constituency of Anambra State in the 10th National Assembly.
National Chairman of the party, Senator Moses Cleopas, described the convention as a defining moment for NDC and a symbol of resilience. “Nigeria stands today at a critical crossroads. In our nation, millions face economic hardship, unemployment, insecurity and institutional distrust. The NDC is preparing itself to offer credible leadership and responsible governance. We are not assembling a crowd for elections, we are building a movement for governance,” Cleopas said.
The convention was attended by top party leaders, including former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi and former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso. Party faithful, dressed in colourful branded outfits and caps bearing the images of various aspirants, filled the venue in a show of solidarity.
Security operatives remained on high alert around the venue to prevent further disturbances as the event concluded.
