Two killed as gunmen attack Ebonyi Assembly candidate’s convoy

Two persons were reportedly killed on Thursday when gunmen attacked the convoy of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate for Ezza South State Constituency, Ebonyi State, Rollins Offia Nwali.

Tribune Online gathered that the incident occurred in the afternoon when Nwali’s convoy was returning from the Amazekewe community in Ezza South Local Government Area of the state.

Security sources said the attackers, allegedly armed with AK-47 rifles and pump-action guns, opened fire on the candidate’s convoy.

It was learnt that security operatives attached to the candidate engaged the assailants in a gun battle after whisking him and his team to safety.

A source said one of the suspected attackers was killed at the scene, while another died later in the hospital. The source identified the person killed at the scene as Jude Nwamgbada.

However, the identities of the deceased and their alleged political affiliations could not be independently verified as of the time of filing this report.

Confirming the attack in a statement on Thursday, Nwali said his Toyota Hilux vehicle was set ablaze and completely burnt during the incident.

He said: “My motorcade was attacked today by armed hoodlums who opened fire on our vehicles while we were returning from Amazekewe. My Toyota Hilux was set ablaze and completely burnt in the attack.

“Thankfully, we are all safe, and I sincerely appreciate the professionalism and gallantry of the security agencies who ensured our safety.”

The NDC candidate, who expressed sympathy to the families of those reportedly killed, described the loss of lives as regrettable.

He appealed to youths in the state not to allow themselves to be used as political thugs by desperate politicians.

“No political ambition is worth the life of any young person, and no young person should have to lose their life in pursuit of another person’s political ambition,” he said.

Nwali added that the attack would not deter him from his determination to serve his constituency.

In a swift reaction, the Chairman of Ezza South Local Government Area, Chinedu Mkpuma, banned political gatherings in the council area without prior authorization from his office.

In a statement he personally signed on Friday, Mkpuma said all political gatherings within the LGA must henceforth obtain prior approval.

“The Chairman recognises that every individual or group has the constitutional right to freedom of association and peaceful assembly.

“However, that right is not absolute. In view of the recent security concerns, this directive has become necessary as a precautionary measure to safeguard lives and property, maintain public order, and prevent further security breaches.

“Any violation of this directive will attract appropriate action in accordance with the law.

“All political groups, organisations and stakeholders are hereby urged to cooperate with the relevant authorities for the overall interest of the public,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Ebonyi State Police Command has confirmed the incident.

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The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the command, SP Joshua Ukandu, said operatives were deployed to the area after receiving a distress call.

He said: “On 22nd October, 2026, around 4 p.m., the command received a distress call about disturbances within Amaezekwe community.

“Operatives were dispatched to the scene, where four individuals with gunshot wounds and a burnt vehicle were seen. One individual was confirmed dead at the hospital, while three are receiving treatment.”

He added that an investigation into the incident has commenced.