A Nigerian senatorial candidate was on Wednesday shot dead and his body burnt by attackers while on his way from a campaign rally in the southern state of Enugu.
The death of Oyibo Chukwu of the Labour Party happened three days before Saturday’s general elections – which is being described as the country’s most competitive polls in 24 years.
His aides who were with him were also shot dead before their car was set ablaze with the bodies inside, local outlets report.
“Our party members are being targeted for assassination by political parties that felt threatened by the rise of the Labour Party in the state and are afraid they may lose the Saturday’s election.” said Chijioke Edeoga, a candidate for the governor’s seat in the state.
The Labour party has not commented on the attack, but its presidential candidate Peter Obi has been urging supporters to vote ” correctly, peacefully, and hopefully”.
Last day of campaigns in Nigeria’s tight elections
A final day of campaigning is getting under way in Nigeria ahead of Saturday’s presidential poll.
Three contenders are thought to have a change of winning in Africa’s most populous country.
It’s thought to be the most competitive election since the end of military rule in 1999.
All sides have promised to resolve any disputes through the courts.
In addition to the candidates from the two main parties – the governing All Progressives Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party – a third leading contender has emerged.
Peter Obi of the Labour Party has attracted enthusiastic support from young activists on social media.
SOURCE: BBC
