Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has ordered security agencies to investigate a reported political clash involving suspected supporters of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area.
The incident reportedly occurred on Friday during an NDC mobilisation march in the area ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The confrontation attracted attention after videos showing a chaotic scene circulated on social media. Reports indicated that some NDC supporters were confronted by individuals described by the organisers as suspected political thugs.
The circumstances surrounding the incident, including the identities of those involved and what triggered the confrontation, remain subject to investigation.
The State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Charles Aniagwu, said Governor Oborevwori had directed security agencies to thoroughly investigate the incident and ensure that anyone found culpable faces the law.
The government also condemned the reported violence, warning that political rivalry must not be allowed to degenerate into thuggery, intimidation or confrontation.
Aniagwu said every political party, candidate and supporter had the right to campaign freely and peacefully anywhere in Delta State without harassment or obstruction.
He stressed that the administration maintained a zero-tolerance position on political violence, regardless of the political party or individuals involved.
According to him, political campaigns were not a licence for violence, while differences in political affiliations should not threaten the peace of communities or the safety of residents.
“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 said.
The commissioner urged supporters of both ruling and opposition parties to abide by the law, stressing that political competition should not become a battle for physical supremacy.
He also said political affiliation would not shield anyone from prosecution if found to have committed an offence.
“Political affiliation is not a shield against the law. 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,” he said.
Aniagwu called on political leaders, candidates, youth groups and community leaders to restrain their supporters and ensure that campaign activities across the state remained peaceful.
He further urged security agencies to remain vigilant and provide a level playing field for political actors while protecting citizens and their democratic rights.
The commissioner said the state government would continue to support lawful political activities but would take firm action against anyone found attempting to disrupt public peace or prevent others from exercising their political rights.
He urged politicians and their supporters to compete through ideas, programmes and records rather than violence, stressing that no political ambition or party interest was worth the life of any Deltan.
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