For the second time in barely five weeks, campaign activities of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) for the November 11 governorship election in Kogi State suffered a setback as its newly inaugurated campaign office, yesterday fell victim to vandalism.

The office, commissioned just a day prior in Anyigba, Dekina Local Council, by SDP Governorship candidate Yakubu Murtala Ajaka was reportedly targeted by individuals believed to be loyal to his opponent.

This incident added a new layer of tension to the political landscape in the state.

On July 8, the secretariat of the SDP located at Paparanda Square, Lokoja, the state capital was vandalized and some materials burnt down by yet to be identified hoodlums.

Mr Sam Abenemi, SDP Deputy Governorship Candidate, who confirmed the latest incident, said “Muri Ajaka commissioned the office and in less than 24hrs it was brought down by suspected hoodlums loyal to a Local govt council chairman”.

Abenemi told The Guardian that the act was “wicked, shocking and uncalled for”.

He said he was shocked and worried over the dimension electioneering campaign for Nov. 11 governorship election in the state was assuming.

“All what campaign is in my understanding is canvassing for votes, but the dimensions the race is taking to is scaring and very unfortunate. This act is very wicked, shocking and uncalled for. This is not how politics is played in a democratic country like ours. This evil and wicked act is aimed at scaring us from taking part in the governorship election, but we won’t be deterred”.

He urged the people of Kogi to ensure they participate fully during the forthcoming gubernatorial election, to decide who they want to govern, and not for anyone to force an unpopular person on them.

However, he appealed to security operatives to investigate the heinous act and ensure the perpetrators were brought to book.