ASABA, NIGERIA — The Delta State Government has condemned the violence reported in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area, warning that political rivalry must not be allowed to threaten the peace and security of the state.
In a statement issued on Friday by the State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, the government expressed concern over the reported incident and stressed that every political party, candidate, and supporter has the right to campaign freely across Delta without intimidation, harassment, or obstruction.
“The Delta State Government has received reports of violence in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area. We condemn this incident in the strongest terms. Political rivalry must never be allowed to threaten the peace and security that Delta State has enjoyed,” Aniagwu stated.
He disclosed that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori had directed security agencies to investigate the incident and ensure that anyone found culpable faces the full weight of the law.
“The Governor has directed the relevant security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into this unfortunate incident and to bring anyone found responsible to justice. We will not tolerate any act capable of disrupting the peace of our state,” Aniagwu said.
The Commissioner emphasised that political competition must be based on ideas, programmes, and records rather than violence or intimidation. He urged all political parties, candidates, and their supporters to conduct themselves peacefully and to respect the rights of others to campaign freely.
“Democracy thrives on the free exchange of ideas, not on violence. Every political party and every candidate has the right to campaign and to seek the support of the people without fear. We call on all stakeholders to embrace peace and to eschew violence in all its forms,” he said.
Aniagwu also called on residents of Effurun and Uvwie Local Government Area to remain calm and to cooperate with security agencies as they work to restore normalcy and prevent a recurrence.
“The government is committed to ensuring the safety and security of all Deltans. We urge our people to remain law-abiding and to support the efforts of the security agencies. Together, we can maintain the peace and stability that our state is known for,” he added.
The incident in Effurun is the latest in a series of politically motivated clashes reported in various parts of the country ahead of the 2027 general elections. Political tensions have been rising as parties and candidates intensify their campaigns and seek to outdo one another in the battle for votes.
The Delta State Police Command has confirmed that it has commenced an investigation into the incident, and that some arrests have been made. The Command’s spokesperson, SP Bright Edafe, said the police were working to identify and apprehend all those involved, and that the suspects would be charged to court upon the conclusion of the investigation.
“We have launched an investigation into the incident, and we have made some arrests. We are determined to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. We appeal to members of the public to remain calm and to provide us with any useful information,” Edafe said.
Civil society organisations and political observers have called for restraint and dialogue among political actors, warning that violence could undermine the credibility of the 2027 elections. They urged the government and security agencies to take decisive action to prevent a recurrence and to ensure that the electoral process remains peaceful and credible.
For now, the Delta State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peace and security across the state, and has warned that anyone found engaging in violence or intimidation will face the full consequences of the law.
