Political tensions in Nigeria’s South-East ahead of the 2027 general elections have taken a bloody turn in Ebonyi State, where two suspected political thugs were reportedly killed following an armed attack on the convoy of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate for the Ebonyi State House of Assembly, Ezza South Constituency, Mr. Rollins Offia Nwali.

The violent confrontation occurred on Thursday afternoon as the candidate’s motorcade was returning from a community engagement in Amazekewe. According to security and insider sources, the armed hoodlums—allegedly affiliated with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and armed with lethal weapons including AK-47 rifles and pump-action guns—ambushed the motorcade and opened intense fire on the vehicles.

During the assault, the candidate’s Toyota Hilux was torched and completely gutted by fire. However, security personnel attached to Mr. Nwali acted swiftly to secure the safety of the candidate and his team, returning fire in self-defense. One of the attackers, identified as Jude Nwamgbada, was killed on the spot, while a second suspect reportedly succumbed to his injuries the following morning while receiving treatment at a hospital.

Confirming the harrowing incident via a public statement on his social media handle, Mr. Nwali expressed deep regret over the loss of human life despite the aggressive nature of the assault. He credited the gallantry and professionalism of the security operatives for preventing a higher casualty toll among his entourage.

In his remarks, the NDC candidate made a passionate appeal to the youth, urging them to resist being manipulated by desperate politicians who utilize violence for selfish ambitions. He emphasized that no political office is worth the life of any young person and affirmed that his campaign remains steadfast in serving the electorate despite intimidation.

This violent episode adds to a troubling pattern of escalating political clashes across the region, following similar recent assaults on opposition figures and campaign offices in neighboring Enugu State. As security agencies face mounting pressure to curb pre-election violence, authorities are expected to launch a comprehensive investigation into the Ebonyi attack to restore law and order.