Abuja, Nigeria – July 19, 2025
Chief Jude Ezenwafor, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate for the upcoming November 8, 2025, Anambra State election, was ambushed and shot by unidentified gunmen in Abuja late Friday night. The attack, which occurred in the Wuse 2 area of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has left him hospitalized with multiple gunshot wounds and has heightened concerns about political violence ahead of Nigeria’s election season.
The incident reportedly happened while Ezenwafor was returning home from a private engagement. Passersby and first responders rushed the injured politician to a private hospital, where he is now undergoing emergency surgery to remove bullets lodged in his body. Two others who were in his vehicle also sustained injuries and are receiving medical care.
At present, the motive for the attack is unknown, and no suspects have been identified. Police authorities in Abuja have launched an investigation. The FCT Police Command’s spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, confirmed an ongoing inquiry but had not provided further updates at the time of this report.
Ezenwafor, a prominent real estate developer based in Abuja, emerged unopposed as the PDP candidate earlier this year after months of internal negotiations within the party. His candidacy is considered part of the PDP’s strategy to reestablish its influence in Anambra after a string of electoral defeats. Recognized for his traditional Igbo chieftaincy cap, which symbolizes leadership in Igbo culture, Ezenwafor’s public profile makes this attack particularly alarming.
Coming just months before the Anambra gubernatorial election, the shooting has rekindled fears of electoral violence. Similar incidents marred the 2023 election cycle, with reports of politically motivated killings in various states. While it remains unclear if this attack fits that pattern, security analysts caution that such violence could escalate as the elections approach.
The PDP has yet to release an official statement, though party members have privately voiced outrage and concern over the safety of political candidates. “This is an attack not just on an individual but on democracy itself,” said one party source. “We demand immediate action from security agencies to ensure those behind this are brought to justice.”
The shooting has also renewed discussions about the risks political figures face in Nigeria, especially during election periods. A 2023 report by the International Crisis Group warned of growing political violence and urged Nigerian authorities to strengthen protections for candidates and electoral processes.
As Chief Ezenwafor’s condition remains critical, the public awaits further updates. This incident serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing threats to Nigeria’s democratic stability as the 2025 elections draw closer.
