Enugu, Nigeria, 10th June 2022, Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), was visibly emotional and shed tears on Thursday during the funeral rites of Christopher Nworie, a party supporter who was brutally murdered during a governorship campaign flag-off in Enugu. The tragic incident, attributed to suspected political thugs, has cast a dark shadow over the election season.
Nworie’s death occurred when assailants launched an attack during the NDC’s campaign event in Enugu. The senseless act of violence claimed his life, leaving a community and political movement in mourning.
A Presidential Candidate’s Grief and Plea
Addressing mourners at the burial, Mr. Obi described Nworie’s demise as both painful and entirely avoidable. He shared his personal commitment to honor the deceased, revealing he had cut short an overseas trip to attend the funeral.
“One day, we will all end up six feet underground. His death is painful. I was supposed to return tomorrow, but because of this burial, I immediately changed my ticket and returned to Nigeria from the UK last night,” Obi stated, his voice heavy with emotion.
The presidential hopeful used the solemn occasion to strongly condemn the escalating trend of political violence, advocating for a shift towards issue-based campaigns rather than aggression.
“We cannot continue like this. Someone died because of an election. Why not campaign based on issues? You cannot see me campaigning by insulting another party. I campaign based on issues that concern the people,” he emphasized.
Mr. Obi reiterated that the democratic process, particularly elections, should never result in the loss of human lives. His impassioned appeal resonated with those present, highlighting the urgent need for peace and civility in Nigeria’s political landscape.