By Chioma Vivian James
The Coalition of Civil Society Groups and the Peace and Security Movement (PSM) have appealed to the National Democratic Coalition (NDC) and other political stakeholders to exercise restraint and avoid actions capable of escalating political tension in Enugu State ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The coalition, in a press statement issued on Thursday, October 29, expressed concern over what it described as rising political tension in the state following recent statements and activities attributed to the NDC and its supporters.
The group, which described itself as a non-partisan peace advocacy movement, warned that political disagreements should not degenerate into violence, stressing that no political ambition was worth the loss of innocent lives.
It urged political actors to learn from the recent violence in Ebonyi State, where two young men reportedly lost their lives over political disagreements, warning against a recurrence in Enugu.
The coalition also defended Governor Peter Mbah’s handling of opposition activities, maintaining that its findings indicated that the governor had provided political parties with a level playing field to exercise their democratic rights.
According to the statement, opposition parties have continued to hold meetings, move freely, display campaign billboards and organise political activities with police security protection.
It further maintained that the governor had neither banned any political party from campaigning nor ordered the arrest of opposition leaders for organising rallies.
The movement quoted Mbah as repeatedly affirming that Enugu belongs to everyone and that all candidates should be allowed to sell their ideas to the electorate.
While condemning incidents involving the alleged destruction of campaign posters and disagreements over political venues, the coalition stressed that such actions should be condemned regardless of the political affiliation of those responsible.
Addressing the NDC leadership, the group acknowledged the opposition’s constitutional right to campaign, criticise the government and disagree with the governor but urged it to pursue its grievances through facts, dialogue and respect for state institutions.
It also offered to mediate in genuine disputes concerning access to campaign venues and other political activities, urging aggrieved parties to explore peaceful channels involving the police, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and relevant peace committees.
The coalition further appealed to supporters of Governor Mbah to avoid provocation and insults, while urging NDC supporters and those of Mr Peter Obi to conduct their political activities peacefully and focus on presenting ideas and manifestos.
It equally called on security agencies to remain neutral and provide equal protection to all political parties and candidates.
Emphasising the need to protect Enugu’s reputation as a peaceful state, the movement said political competition should be driven by ideas rather than hostility, warning that the state must remain united beyond the 2027 elections.
“Enugu is bigger than any party. Enugu is bigger than any candidate,” the statement declared.
The coalition commended Governor Mbah for what it described as keeping Enugu open, free and democratic, while urging the NDC and other political stakeholders to prioritise peace and constructive engagement.
It concluded with a call for all political actors to embrace peaceful campaigns, declaring: “Enugu must not burn. Let Peace Win in Enugu.”
The statement was signed by James Okoronkwo, National Coordinator of the Peace and Security Movement.
