(DDM) – Tension gripped Asaba, Delta State, on Wednesday after rival supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) clashed ahead of Saturday’s local government elections.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the violent confrontation broke out along the busy Nnebisi Road, where both parties held parallel rallies.
Eyewitnesses reported that the clash quickly escalated, with sticks and stones being freely used by the opposing groups.
Traders in the area hurriedly shut their shops, while residents fled for safety as chaos spread across the popular commercial stretch.
Police operatives fired tear gas to disperse the rival crowds and later deployed reinforcements to restore calm.
Authorities confirmed that several individuals sustained injuries during the melee, though no fatalities were recorded.
The Delta State Police Command warned that any political supporter found inciting violence would face immediate prosecution.
Police spokespersons appealed to political leaders to rein in their followers and emphasize peaceful participation in the forthcoming elections.
Observers expressed concern that the unrest could fuel voter apathy and discourage citizens from turning out for the polls.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), however, reassured residents of Delta’s 25 local government areas that robust security arrangements were in place.
INEC officials stressed that every voter would be protected and urged communities not to allow violence to undermine the electoral process.
Political analysts said the clash reflects a growing trend of pre-election tensions in Nigeria’s democracy.
They warned that repeated violence risks undermining confidence in grassroots elections, which remain vital to the country’s democratic structure.
Delta State, historically a PDP stronghold, has recently seen increased APC activity, with both parties eager to prove dominance.
Saturday’s vote is therefore viewed as an important test of strength between the two rival parties in the oil-rich state.
The violence in Asaba has heightened expectations about whether security forces can maintain peace before and during the polls.
Residents continue to express fears that any further clashes could spiral into larger confrontations, threatening the credibility of the elections.
