Thugs invade factional PDP convention, assault journalists; Jonathan named presidential candidate

By Luminous Jannamike, ABUJA

Political thugs, wielding sticks and other dangerous weapons, on Saturday, invaded the A-Class Event Centre, venue of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, ‘National Convention’ being conducted by the party’s interim National Working Committee led by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki.

Read Also: ‘We won’t be intimidated’; PDP faction changes venue of Jonathan’s ratification as presidential candidate

The thugs disrupted proceedings, forcing the programme to a halt.

Vanguard reports that party members and journalists were harassed and assaulted during the attack, while several mobile phones and other valuables were reportedly stolen.

The violence caused panic at the venue and brought the convention activities to an abrupt end as participants fled for safety.

Jonathan ratified as presidential candidate

Recall that the faction had fixed Saturday, today, for the special convention to ratify former President Goodluck Jonathan as its presidential candidate to be held at the A-Class Park and Event Centre in Abuja.

However, the Federal Capital Territory Administration, FCTA, issued a directive mandating owners of hotels, event centres and other public facilities to deal only with the leadership of political parties recognised by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.

And, this morning, the party changed the venue of the convention, as the Police blocked the roads leading to the initial venue.

Party officlas told newsmen that they had moved the venue to somewhere in Area 10 of the FCT.

Vanguard News

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