Delta orders probe as NDC, APC supporters clash

The Delta State Government has directed security agencies to investigate and prosecute anyone found culpable in a political clash between suspected supporters of the Nigeria Democratic Congress and the All Progressives Congress in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area of the state.

The directive followed a violent confrontation between suspected supporters of both parties during an NDC campaign march in Effurun on Friday.

Condemning the reported violence, the state government expressed concern over a viral video of the incident, stressing that political rivalry must not be allowed to degenerate into thuggery or intimidation.

Saturday PUNCH gathered that an NDC leader had allegedly accused the APC and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of sponsoring the attack.

In a swift reaction, the State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Charles Aniagwu, said Oborevwori had directed security agencies to thoroughly investigate the incident.

The government affirmed that every political party, candidate and supporter possessed the right to campaign freely and peacefully anywhere in Delta State without harassment.

“Governor Oborevwori has directed the security agencies to investigate the incident and ensure that whoever is found to have participated in the act is made to face the full weight of the law,” Aniagwu stated.

The commissioner said the state government maintained a zero-tolerance stance on political violence, regardless of the political parties or individuals involved.

According to him, political campaigns are not a licence for violence, and differences in political affiliation should not threaten community peace or public safety.

Aniagwu urged supporters of both the ruling and opposition parties to abide by the law, stressing that political competition must not become a battle for physical supremacy.

He noted that the government would not shield anyone who violated the law, adding that political affiliation would not protect offenders from prosecution.

“Political affiliation is not a shield against the law,” Aniagwu said. “If anybody commits an offence, the law should take its course. We cannot preach peace and at the same time tolerate people who undermine it.”

The commissioner called on political leaders, candidates, youth and community leaders to restrain their supporters to ensure campaign activities remained peaceful.

He also urged security agencies to remain vigilant and provide a level playing field for all political actors, stressing that the protection of citizens and their democratic rights must remain paramount.

Aniagwu maintained that no political ambition or party interest was worth the life of any Deltan, urging politicians to compete through ideas, programmes and track records rather than violence.