2 women c0llapse, 15 !njured as political party holds rally in Imo

2 women collapse, 15 injured as political party holds rally in Imo

Two women collapsed while 15 others were injured when armed policemen from the Tiger Base shot gear gas into the mammoth crowd of the Action Peoples Party (APP) members who had attended the party’s rally and inauguration of its office at Ntueke, Ideato South council area of the state.

As early as 10am yesterday, thousands of APP members had assembled at the Ntueke Junction for the party’s rally scheduled to hold at the Christ Anglican Church, Ntueke Parish.

However, armed policemen from Tiger Base barricaded the venue of the rally, an action triggered a stampede as the people scampered for safety. In the commotion, two of the women collapsed having inhaled the noxious gas. But, they were quickly evacuated from the scene.

Despite the chaos, intimidation and destruction, supporters of Ikenga Ugochinyere stood their ground and insisted that the rally must continue. In a dramatic show of unity, the people proceeded with the endorsement, sending a strong message that their democratic will cannot be suppressed.

Addressing the charged crowd, Ugochinyere condemned the actions of the security agencies, describing the alleged use of teargas and live bullets on unarmed civilians as shameful and unacceptable in a democratic society.

“I call on the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to urgently call the Imo State Government to order, it is a constitutional right of citizens to peacefully assemble and hold political rallies. We’ll resist every intimidation from the state government. We have the right to gather.

“I also call on the Inspector General of Police and the Chief of Army Staff to investigate the “rogue activities” of the Tiger Base in Owerri. The unit is being used as an instrument of intimidation and serious misconduct against innocent citizens. Please don’t allow the soldiers and the police to be turned into political thugs. These all important institutions should not be allowed to be abused.”

Reaffirming his resolve, he assured the people that he would not back down in the struggle to defend and liberate his constituents, regardless of the level of threats, harassment or intimidation. He emphasised that the movement represents the collective will of the people and remains unstoppable.

The rally ended with a resounding declaration of unity, resilience and determination by the people of Ideato, who reiterated their commitment to protecting their votes and ensuring that their mandate prevails in 2027.

The endorsement rally, held at Christ Anglican Church, Ntueke, witnessed a massive turnout of over 10,000 supporters, who stormed the venue in a show of solidarity and resistance.

Reports from the scene indicate that the Imo State Government allegedly sealed off the venue with Armoured Personnel Carriers, while security operatives, including police units from the Government House, fired teargas and live ammunition in an attempt to disperse the crowd.

Prince Borosky Okpara, president of Ideato South Political Forum, who endorsed Ugochinyere, said: “For those still attempting to fan the embers of division under the guise of zoning, we say this respectfully but firmly. The time for that conversation has passed. The people have spoken. We, therefore, call on political stakeholders, community leaders, youths groups and all well-meaning citizens to align with this position in the interest of unity, continuity and accelerated development. Any attempt to undermine this collective decision is a direct affront to the will of the people of Ideato South.

“Ugochinyere has distinguished himself beyond doubt as a courageous, effective and people-oriented representative, whose voice resonates not just within Ideato, but across Nigeria and the global stage. His track record in representation, advocacy and service delivery is both visible and verifiable. Let it be clearly stated that Ideato South will not sacrifice quality leadership on the altar of zoning. We have chosen progress over politics, substance over slang and results over rhetoric.”

Ugochinyere, lawmaker representing Ideato Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives since 2023, is widely regarded as a prominent opposition figure and grassroots mobiliser. His recent alignment with the APP has further strengthened the party’s position as a leading opposition force in Imo State.