Supporters scamper for safety after teargas at senator's declaration for governorship election

macfranc007 September 06, 2018 Nigeria News today & Breaking news ▷ Read Naija news 24/7 Oluwatobi Bolashodun

- Tear gas caused stampede in Cross River, when Senator John Owan-Enoh formally declared his intention to run for governorship in 2019

- The tear gassing succeeded in causing stampede and fear, leading to many officials, supporters and others scampering for safety

- Senator Owan-Enoh appealed for calm amongst his supporters and cautioned against violence

There was stampede in Ikom, the central part of Cross River, on Wednesday, September 5, when Senator John Owan-Enoh who represents Cross River Central senatorial district in the Senate, formally declared his intention to participate in the governorship race next year, Daily Trust reports.

NAIJ.com gathered that the event was held at the government secondary school premises in Ikom, where there was huge attendance of supporters, political bigwigs and enthusiasts.

It was however, not immediately known who were responsible for the tear gassing but it succeeded in causing stampede and fear, leading to many officials, supporters and others scampering for safety.

Armed thugs from political opponents were suspected to be responsible, heightening fears of reprisal.

Hafiz Inuwa, the commissioner of police, had dissociated his men from the assault and said the perpetrators would be arrested.

Senator Owan-Enoh, addressing the huge crowd, appealed for calm amongst his supporters and cautioned against violence. He said his intention to vie for the governorship was to reposition the state industrially, economically and enhance the wellbeing of the people.

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NAIJ.com previously reported that Governor Umaru Tanko Al-Makura of Nasarawa state said the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will cease to exist in the state in 2019.

Al-Makura made the statement on Tuesday, June 26, when dismissing fears that the All Progressives Congress (APC) will lose the coming 2019 poll.

“The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is in comatose even though the heart is still beating, but before 2019 there will be no PDP in the Nasarawan State," he said.

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