Gunfire in Wuse: Anambra PDP Gubernatorial Candidate Jude Ezenwafor Narrowly Escapes Assassination Attempt [VIDEO]

 

The political landscape in Anambra State was shaken on Friday night following a violent attack on Jude Ezenwafor, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate, who was shot by unknown assailants while returning home after an engagement in Abuja.

The incident occurred in the Wuse 2 district of the capital, a normally vibrant area known for its bustling nightlife and commercial activity. The shocking attack has now added to the rising concerns over insecurity in Nigeria’s political environment as the Anambra gubernatorial election draws near.

Currently receiving medical attention in a private hospital in Abuja, Ezenwafor is reported to be in stable but critical condition. Medical personnel at the facility confirmed that he is scheduled for an urgent surgical procedure to remove bullets lodged in his body. The attack did not only target the PDP flagbearer. Two individuals who were traveling with him at the time also sustained injuries, although the extent of their wounds remains undisclosed.

Speaking briefly to journalists from his hospital bed in the early hours of Saturday morning, Ezenwafor recounted the terrifying experience with a visible expression of pain. “It was a moment I didn’t think I would survive,” he said, his voice faint but resolute. “I was just coming from an appointment and heading home when we were ambushed by gunmen. I am now in the hospital, and the doctors are doing everything to extract the bullets.”

The motive behind the attack remains unclear. No group has claimed responsibility, and the police have yet to make any arrests. However, sources close to the investigation suggested that the assault bore the hallmarks of a politically motivated assassination attempt. The brazen nature of the shooting, combined with the fact that Ezenwafor is a prominent political figure, has fueled speculation that it was a targeted operation.

Family members, party supporters, and political allies have since been gathering at the hospital, visibly distraught and demanding swift justice. The PDP has issued a statement condemning the incident and urging the security agencies to carry out a thorough investigation. Party officials expressed deep concern over the recurring trend of violence against political figures and called for immediate measures to safeguard all candidates, regardless of their party affiliations.

Reacting to the attack, a senior PDP official who preferred not to be named said, “This is a serious threat to our democracy. If candidates cannot freely move about without the fear of being attacked or killed, then the entire process is compromised. We demand that security operatives get to the root of this incident and ensure the perpetrators are brought to book.”

Several civil society organizations have also weighed in, urging the federal government to beef up security and ensure a violence-free electioneering process in Anambra State. Many Nigerians took to social media to voice their outrage and express solidarity with Ezenwafor, calling the incident a wake-up call on the state of national security.

Political observers say this attack could have significant ramifications for the upcoming elections. While Ezenwafor's candidacy remains active, his health status may affect his ability to campaign in the critical weeks ahead. Party strategists are now reassessing their plans and awaiting updates from his medical team.

Eyewitnesses who spoke to local reporters described scenes of chaos during the attack. One resident said he heard multiple gunshots and saw a black SUV speeding away from the scene. “It happened so fast. At first, we thought it was armed robbery, but then we heard that a politician was shot. The police came about 20 minutes later,” the witness added.

Law enforcement authorities have since cordoned off the area and launched an investigation. A senior police officer from the FCT Command confirmed that forensic teams have begun combing the crime scene for evidence. “We have intensified efforts to apprehend those behind this heinous act. No stone will be left unturned,” he assured.

As the PDP and its supporters rally around Jude Ezenwafor in this trying moment, the nation watches closely, hoping that justice will be served swiftly. The attack has reignited debates over political violence in Nigeria and the urgent need for systemic reforms that can ensure safety, accountability, and peace during electoral processes.

The coming days will be crucial, not just for Ezenwafor's recovery but for the integrity of Anambra's upcoming election and the broader health of Nigerian democracy.