Breaking: Suspected PDP Thugs Attack Jonathan Ratification Meeting in Abuja

The political atmosphere in Nigeria’s capital turned tense on Saturday as suspected thugs stormed a gathering of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) factional leaders who had just ratified former President Goodluck Jonathan as their presidential candidate for the 2027 elections.

The attack occurred at A-Class Event Centre in Abuja, where leaders of a PDP faction, led by former Minister of Special Duties, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, had concluded a ratification meeting. According to eyewitness accounts, the armed assailants stormed the venue shortly after the event ended, forcing party officials, journalists, and supporters to flee for their safety.

Chaos at the Event Centre

Sources at the venue told Daily Trust that the attackers invaded the premises without warning, wielding dangerous weapons and creating pandemonium. Many attendees, including top-ranking party chieftains and members of the press, scrambled to safety as the assailants took over the facility.

The situation escalated quickly, with property reportedly vandalized before security operatives arrived at the scene. Police officers eventually restored order, dispersing the attackers and securing the area.

Speaking after the incident, Turaki urged party members and supporters to remain calm and avoid any acts of retaliation.

“We are not disturbed by this unfortunate incident. Our mandate is clear, and we will pursue it peacefully. The fight is not on the streets; it will be at the polls. We call on all our supporters to remain law-abiding and focused,” Turaki said.

Political Tensions Rising

The attack highlights the escalating political tensions ahead of the 2027 general elections. The PDP faction that endorsed Jonathan as its candidate has been at odds with other wings of the party, creating a fractured opposition scene. Jonathan, who served as president from 2010 to 2015, has yet to publicly declare his acceptance of the candidacy, but his supporters remain resolute.

Many political analysts see the attack as a troubling sign of the lengths some actors may go to disrupt opposition coalescence. The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from civil society groups, including the Nigerian Bar Association and the Centre for Democracy and Development, who have called for a thorough investigation and the prosecution of those responsible.

As Nigeria gears up for what promises to be a fiercely contested election cycle, this latest incident serves as a stark reminder of the stakes involved — and the urgent need for security agencies to guarantee a level playing field for all political actors.