NDC rally attacked in Delta State, vehicles destroyed and injuries reported

Political tension rose in Delta State on Saturday when supporters of the Nigeria Democratic Congress came under attack during a one-million-man march in Asaba. The march backed the presidential ambition of Peter Obi and his running mate Rabiu Kwankwaso. Several people were injured and campaign vehicles bearing images of Obi, Kwankwaso and Delta North senatorial candidate Victor Ochei were vandalised.

Suspected thugs armed with sticks, knives, machetes and other dangerous weapons reportedly carried out the attack. Footage from the scene showed a counter-mob assaulting some of the alleged attackers apprehended during the melee.

“Even one death is one too many. Whoever sent armed thugs into a peaceful march must answer for it.”

Victor Ochei, former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, called on Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to order an immediate investigation and ensure those responsible were arrested and prosecuted. He described the attack as unacceptable and accused the ruling All Progressives Congress of using intimidation instead of issue-based political engagement.

Ochei alleged that more than 30 campaign buses were destroyed by suspected attackers led by commercial tricycle operators under the supervision of an alleged task force official. He warned that Delta should not be turned into a theatre of political violence or bloodshed.

Ovie Omo-Agege, former Deputy President of the Senate, called on President Bola Tinubu to caution Governor Oborevwori over the attack. He said thousands of residents had gathered peacefully on Saturday to campaign for Obi and Kwankwaso when the violence occurred.

Omo-Agege alleged that armed thugs acting on behalf of elements within the Delta State Government and the APC attacked the opposition campaigners. He said the attackers were organised by the Oshimili South Keke Task Force/Revenue Collector, Chief Uche Ndu-Okafor.

According to his statement, more than 30 vehicles were destroyed and over 10 members and supporters sustained injuries. The police confirmed one death, reportedly one of the attackers. Omo-Agege demanded that police identify the deceased, establish the circumstances of the death and prosecute everyone who allegedly organised and sponsored the attack.