Teargas, live bullets as Ugochinyere’s supporters defy attempt to stop rally

…Many injured; ‘I’ll never bow’ — Lawmaker

By Emmanuel Iheaka

OWERRI — Supporters of Ikenga Ugochinyere on Tuesday defied teargas and gunfire to hold a rally in his honour in Ideato Federal Constituency, Imo State.

The rally, held at Christ Anglican Church, Ntueke, Ideato South, reportedly went ahead despite a heavy security presence at the venue prior to the arrival of the lawmaker and his supporters.

Eyewitnesses said security operatives attempted to disperse the gathering using teargas and sporadic gunshots. At least 15 persons were reportedly injured while trying to flee the scene.

Despite the disruption, a large crowd—estimated at over 10,000 people—gathered in front of the church to continue the rally.

President of the Ideato South Political Forum, the organisers of the event, Prince Borosky Okpara, said the group had resolved to adopt Ugochinyere as its sole candidate for the Ideato Federal Constituency seat in 2027, citing his performance in office.

He added that the group would resist any attempt to undermine their mandate.

“Hon. Ugochinyere has distinguished himself as a courageous, effective, and people-oriented representative. His track record in representation, advocacy, and service delivery is both visible and verifiable,” Okpara said.

Addressing supporters, Ugochinyere condemned the actions of the security agents, describing the reported use of teargas and live ammunition on unarmed civilians as unacceptable in a democratic society.

He called on the Inspector-General of Police and the Chief of Army Staff to investigate what he described as intimidation and misconduct against citizens.

Reaffirming his stance, the lawmaker said he would not be deterred by threats or harassment.

“They killed our people, and we are yet to recover from that. They destroyed our billboards because they do not want me to come out. I will not stop engaging my people. I will not bow until the last hour,” he said.

He urged security agencies to uphold their responsibility of protecting lives and property, warning that failure to address such incidents could undermine confidence ahead of the 2027 elections.

“It is the duty of security agencies, especially the police and the army, to keep our people safe. If this is not addressed, it raises serious concerns for our democratic process,” he added.