A political gathering of the Nigeria Democratic Congress in Lagos was disrupted on Thursday after suspected thugs invaded the venue, triggering a confrontation that later spilled onto a major road in the area. Police officers reportedly fired shots into the air to disperse the crowd as tensions escalated along Kudirat Abiola Way, Oregun.

The incident occurred at Classic Event Place, where NDC supporters had assembled ahead of an address by the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi. Obi and his running mate, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, were scheduled to attend the town hall meeting as part of the party’s political mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Witness accounts indicate that the suspected attackers, reportedly carrying cutlasses and cudgels, stormed the event centre unexpectedly. Their arrival caused panic, with people inside the hall scrambling for safety as the situation quickly deteriorated.

Some party supporters, however, confronted the intruders and reportedly threw chairs in an attempt to push them back. Supporters dressed in blue shirts and white caps later chased the suspected attackers out of the building.

The confrontation continued at the car park, where one of the suspected attackers was caught by a group of young men and repeatedly beaten with sticks. The incident subsequently moved onto Kudirat Abiola Way, disrupting activity along the busy road.

Police officers intervened and fired warning shots into the air in an attempt to disperse the crowd and restore order. However, details of the police response, including whether anyone was arrested, were not immediately available.

The incident raises concerns about the safety of political gatherings as parties intensify mobilisation ahead of the 2027 elections. The extent of any injuries and whether the attack will prompt a formal investigation remain unclear.