Suspected political thugs have disrupted a town hall meeting organised by the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Lagos State, attacking supporters and forcing participants to flee.

The incident occurred on Thursday at the meeting venue in Oregun, ahead of the scheduled appearance of the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and his running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso.

According to reports, the thugs (hoodlums), armed with cutlasses, cudgels and stones, stormed the venue and disrupted proceedings.

Footage of the incident shared online showed one of the suspected attackers being apprehended and beaten by participants.

Thugs allegedly demand money

Obi was reportedly not at the venue when the attack occurred.

The attackers were said to have demanded money from NDC supporters for holding the meeting. When their demands were not met, they allegedly began attacking people at the venue.

A police source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed the incident but said the organisers did not obtain prior approval from security agencies before holding the event.

“Yes, it happened. However, it’s unfortunate that the organisers did not inform the security agencies of their rally,” the source said.

Obi continues nationwide engagements

The attack comes amid Obi’s nationwide town hall engagements ahead of the 2027 general elections.

On Tuesday, the former Anambra State governor visited Jos, Plateau State, where he and members of his entourage paid a courtesy visit to the Gbong Gwom Jos, Da Jacob Gyang Buba.

He also visited Benue State on Wednesday, travelling from Makurdi to Gboko, where he paid a courtesy visit to the Tor Tiv.