Kasim Sumaina in Abuja
The Coalition of Civil Society Groups for Good Governance (CCSGG) Thursday cautioned governorship candidates in Enugu State in opposition to inflammatory politics and smear campaigns forward of the 2027 normal elections, urging them to current verifiable improvement agendas to the citizens.
The coalition, which mentioned it includes over 52 civil society organisations dedicated to selling accountability and good governance, said this at a world press convention themed: “Enugu State and the Politics of 2027: Putting the Record Straight.” in Abuja
Addressing journalists on behalf of coalition, Comrade Okpanachi Jacob, mentioned the group intervention grew to become obligatory following the controversy surrounding the incident on the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, on October 10, 2026, involving supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
He famous that the group investigated the matter after statements attributed to the NDC governorship candidate, Sir Christian Chinyeaka Ohaa, and others, which linked the Enugu State Government to the incident.
The coalition described the suggestion {that a} political rally was to be held at a global airport as deeply regarding and inconsistent with established requirements for aviation safety.
It famous that in accordance with accounts launched by the Enugu State Government and the Enugu State Police Command, the NDC had publicised a “Grand Statewide Campaign Flag-off 2026” on the airport, was suggested to safe approval from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), however allegedly proceeded with out such approval, resulting in a confrontation when safety personnel restricted entry.
The coalition due to this fact posed 5 inquiries to the NDC to reply in public curiosity, stating:
“Did the celebration get hold of formal approval from the suitable federal airport authorities for the gathering? If approval was obtained, will the celebration publish it for public scrutiny? What directions got to celebration members regarding entry to the airport? Why was a big political gathering deliberate for a delicate federal facility? What credible proof immediately connects Governor Peter Mbah or any recognized state official to the confrontation?
“Freedom of association and peaceful assembly are constitutional democratic rights. However, those rights must be exercised lawfully and responsibly. Political enthusiasm does not override aviation security,” the coalition mentioned.
It urged politicians to desist from disseminating deceptive info, stressing that airports are delicate federal amenities whose safety and operations should not be compromised by partisan actions.
The coalition mentioned Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah just isn’t above criticism, noting that residents, opposition events and journalists have the precise to query his insurance policies, scrutinise public expenditure and demand transparency. However, it mentioned criticism should be primarily based on info and never on demonisation or allegations unsupported by proof.
“Accusation without evidence is not accountability. It is political blackmail capable of inflaming passions, misleading the public and undermining the peace and security of Enugu State,” the group mentioned.
The group careworn that opposition standing doesn’t confer immunity from rules governing airports, political gatherings and public order. Adding: “It mentioned all political events should notify acceptable authorities of main public actions, adjust to lawful safety necessities and guarantee members don’t interact in violence or destruction of public property.
It additionally referred to as on safety businesses to stay skilled, neutral and proportionate, guaranteeing a degree taking part in area for all events whereas respecting residents’ rights to peaceable meeting.
The coalition warned in opposition to importing thugs, arming supporters, spreading unfounded safety alarms or manufacturing confrontations for propaganda, urging safety businesses to analyze studies of makes an attempt to recruit armed individuals forward of 2027.
