By Paul Joseph
The Delta State Government has ordered security agencies to investigate a reported clash involving suspected supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) during a political procession in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area.
The directive came after videos of the confrontation circulated online, showing an incident linked to the NDC’s “1,000,000-Man March for NDC Candidates, 5-over-5” mobilisation exercise held in the area on Friday.
Dr Obiuwevbi Ominimini, the NDC candidate for Ughelli/Udu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, accused Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and the APC of allegedly mobilising thugs to attack participants in the procession.
Ominimini described the march as peaceful and alleged that NDC supporters were assaulted during the exercise. He called for an investigation into the incident and for those responsible to be held accountable.
The allegation against the governor and the APC has not been independently established, while no official police statement was cited identifying those involved in the confrontation or confirming their political affiliation.
Reacting to the incident, the Delta State Government directed security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation and prosecute anyone found culpable.
The state Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Charles Aniagwu, said Governor Oborevwori had instructed security agencies to determine what transpired and identify those responsible.
Aniagwu said the government would not tolerate political violence, irrespective of the political party or individuals involved.
He maintained that political parties, candidates and their supporters have the right to conduct campaigns and other political activities across the state, provided they operate peacefully and within the law.
The commissioner further urged political leaders, candidates, youths and community leaders to take responsibility for the conduct of their supporters as political activities gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He also called on security agencies to remain vigilant and provide equal protection to political parties during campaigns and mobilisation exercises.
The latest incident has renewed concerns about possible clashes between supporters of rival political parties as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 elections.
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