Rivers: Wike, Others Escape Death As Unknown Gunmen Disrupt Campaign Rally

Governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers
State, Chief Ezebunwo Nyesom Wike yesterday escaped death as unknown
gunmen shot sporadically to disrupt the party's campaign rally at Abua
Central in Abua/Odual local government area of the state.

Wike, and other leaders of the PDP in the state, including his running
mate, Dr (Mrs) Ipalibo Banigo, were not hurt in the gun attack that
lasted for more than 45 minutes, as they were still at the palace of
the traditional ruler of Abua, King Kaleh Obunge, when the incident
occurred.

Also in his entourage were the state PDP chairman, Chief Felix Obuah;
the executive director, Finance and Administration, Niger Delta
Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Henry Ogiri; a member of the House
of Representatives, Mrs Betty Apiafi, and the party's candidate for
Rivers West senatorial district, Hon. Osinakachukwu Ideozu.

However, when the sound of guns died down, supporters of the party who
had earlier fled the venue of the campaign rally as a result of the
sporadic shooting return, and the event commenced in earnest.

Speaking at the rally, Wike assured the people of Abua/Odual local
government area that he would resolve the insecurity that has engulfed
the area, saying that the party believes in non-violence and would not
be intimidated by violence being perpetrated by members of the All
Progressives Congress (APC) and their associates.

He said, "We believe in non violence in our quest to take over
governance of Rivers State. This level of violence will not be allowed
to continue. The people of Rivers State have resolved to vote out this
outgoing administration and all her associates. That they have
resorted to violence indicates that they are aware that they have lost
the election."

In his speech, Ogiri who is also PDP leader in the state, said all
leaders will work towards the peace of the area, adding that no amount
of violence will intimidate the people of Abua/Odual local government
area.

He said, "We will not be intimidated by any acts of violence. We are
heading to victory. This is a PDP local government area. We are
committed to peace building. There is a APC in Abua/Odual LGA. Our
people have benefited from the PDP and they will vote PDP."
--Leadership