Nnewi, Anambra State – Tensions ran high on Tuesday as Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Nnewi North Local Government Area took to the streets in protest over an alleged tear gas attack on their leader, Hon. Okonkwo Onyemaobi, during the recent local government elections. The incident occurred on September 28, when Hon. Onyemaobi, a councilorship candidate representing the Young Progressives Party (YPP) for Otolo Ward 1, was reportedly attacked by police officers while on his wheelchair at a polling station.
The protest, organized under the banner of the Voice of the Abilities, saw a large turnout of PWDs who gathered at the Nnewi Area Command, demanding answers and justice. Chanting solidarity slogans, they brandished placards with inscriptions such as “Justice for Onyemaobi,” “Stop Police Brutality Against PWDs,” and “We Demand Free and Fair Elections.” They called on the Nigeria Police Force to provide an explanation for what they described as the “inhuman treatment” meted out to their leader.
The Alleged Incident
Speaking at the protest, Hon. Onyemaobi recounted the events that unfolded on the day of the election, claiming he was targeted by police officers assigned to monitor the electoral process. According to him, the officers fired tear gas at him twice while he remained in his wheelchair at the polling station.
“I was at the polling station in Otolo Ward 1, alongside other voters, waiting to cast our votes when the incident occurred,” Onyemaobi explained, visibly upset. “We had been informed that more sensitive materials were supposed to arrive, but they didn’t. The electoral officers present were about to leave, and we insisted that they address us first. We wanted to know why the election was not proceeding as planned. Instead of addressing our concerns, the police began threatening us.”
Hon. Onyemaobi claims that despite their peaceful stand, the police officers escalated the situation by deploying tear gas directly at him. “They shot the first canister at me while I was in my wheelchair, and then, shockingly, they fired a second one. I have evidence of this – the canisters are right here, and the entire incident was captured on video,” he stated, holding up the expended tear gas canisters as proof.
Health and Safety Concerns
The aftermath of the tear gas attack was severe, as Onyemaobi revealed that he was immediately taken to the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH) in Nnewi. There, he was admitted to the emergency unit, where medical personnel attended to him. Although he has since been discharged, Onyemaobi stated that he remains on medication to counter the effects of the excessive inhalation of tear gas. “It was a traumatic experience, one I should never have had to endure,” he lamented. “We were simply standing our ground to ensure a free and fair election, but instead, I became a victim of brutality.”
The Question of Stolen Mandate
The protest was not only about the alleged police brutality but also centered around what the protesters described as the “theft” of Onyemaobi’s electoral mandate. Hon. Onyemaobi expressed his shock and disappointment over how the situation unfolded, accusing certain political actors of using the police to prevent him from rightfully contesting in the election. “The police are supposed to protect the citizens, yet they stood by and allowed politicians to rob me of my mandate. This is why we are here today – to seek justice, to have our voices heard,” Onyemaobi stated passionately.
Adding to the frustration, Onyemaobi disclosed that despite the disruptions, election results were still announced late into the night, declaring the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) as the winner for Otolo Ward 1. “How could they announce a result when no election took place in my ward?” he asked. “It’s a clear case of electoral malpractice, and we will not be silenced. Our protest is to demand transparency and accountability.”
A Peaceful Protest with a Message
The protesters, led by Hon. Onyemaobi, were firm but peaceful in their demonstration. They gathered in numbers, blocking roads in Nnewi to draw attention to their grievances, but made sure to maintain order throughout. “We are not here to cause trouble,” Onyemaobi declared. “We want our message to be heard loud and clear. The Nigeria Police and the Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission (ANSIEC) must address this injustice.”
In a symbolic act of protest, Hon. Onyemaobi, who holds the title “Anunuebe,” alongside his fellow protesters, invoked traditional curses on ANSIEC and the police officers responsible for the attack. “We will not let this matter rest. Those who perpetuate injustice against the PWD community will not go unpunished,” he warned, as the crowd chanted in agreement.
The Police Response
The demonstration caught the attention of the Nnewi Area Commander, ACP Uche N., who emerged from the police station to address the aggrieved protesters. In a calm and composed manner, ACP Uche acknowledged Hon. Onyemaobi’s grievances and advised him to file a formal petition regarding the incident. “We understand your pain and frustrations,” ACP Uche said. “You have every right to express your concerns, but it’s important to follow the due process. Submit your complaint formally, and I assure you, the matter will be looked into.”
The ACP also urged the protesters to remain peaceful, emphasizing the importance of conducting their demonstration without causing discomfort or disruptions to others. “Your message is being heard,” he assured. “But let’s ensure that we do the right thing the right way.”
Looking Ahead: A Call for Justice
The protest by PWDs in Nnewi North Local Government Area has sparked widespread attention, raising important questions about the treatment of marginalized groups during elections and the conduct of security agencies in such processes. As Hon. Onyemaobi and his supporters wait for the authorities to act on their demands, they remain resolute in their quest for justice and electoral transparency.
“We will not be intimidated or silenced,” Onyemaobi vowed. “We demand fairness, respect, and the protection of our rights. This is not just about me; it’s about ensuring that all Nigerians, regardless of their physical abilities, are given a fair chance to participate in the democratic process.”
The protest served as a reminder that the fight for inclusivity, equality, and justice is far from over in Nigeria. As the dust settles, the PWD community in Nnewi continues to stand united, determined to ensure that their voices are heard and that their rights are protected.
