By Karen James
Serious questions are now being asked following the sudden appearance of the Young Progressives Party (YPP) candidate, Paul Chukwuma, at Onitsha Main Market just moments after the gunfire incident that left traders injured and one life lost.
Eyewitness accounts revealed that Chukwuma stormed the market with his team barely two minutes after the gunshot, sparking suspicion among traders and observers about his true intentions. Reports allege that the YPP candidate attempted to stir unrest and provoke sentiments against the ruling All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), but his alleged plan failed as the facts surrounding the incident unfolded.
The Managing Director of Ocha Brigade, Comrade Celestine Anere, who was also at the scene, described the YPP candidate’s conduct as an attempt to capitalize on tragedy for political gain.
“Comrade Anere and his team were able to repel such gory behaviour from the YPP candidate and a few others. As we speak, he continues visiting hospitals to ensure proper care and welfare of the victims,” a source confirmed.
Market leaders and security operatives are also questioning why Chukwuma, who has not been known to visit troubled areas in the past, appeared so swiftly at the scene of violence.
“If Chukwuma claims he knew nothing about the gunshot, how did he appear at the scene just two minutes later?” one trader queried.
The incident, which initially sparked tension, is now turning into a heated political controversy, with allegations that the YPP candidate may have had foreknowledge of the chaos. Investigations are ongoing to unravel the circumstances surrounding both the gunshots and Chukwuma’s immediate presence at the market. Besides, he and his entourage moved from the market to FMC where they created an unnecessary scene, making a show of trying to evacuate one of the victims who was in critical condition and was being stabilized..
