Political Thugs Attack Obi Supporters ln Delta

There was tension on Saturday in Asaba, Delta State, following an alleged attack on supporters of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, by suspected political thugs believed to be loyal the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Engineer Thompson Omoneje, an NDC coordinator, said the incident occurred while the supporters were holding a peaceful rally in support of their presidential candidate.

Omoneje alleged that the attackers, who were dressed in black and arrived in commercial tricycles (Keke), confronted the supporters and vandalised their vehicles.

He claimed that the suspected assailants, allegedly linked to commercial tricycle operators in the COMATOA area of Asaba, suddenly accosted the occupants of a vehicle before launching an attack.

According to him, the attackers smashed the vehicle’s windscreen and damaged other parts of the vehicle in the process.

Omoneje expressed concern over the incident, which has raised questions about the safety of political supporters and the need for tolerance among political groups, particularly as political activities intensify.

“The development underscores the need for political actors and their supporters to embrace peaceful engagement, respect opposing political views and refrain from actions capable of undermining public peace and democratic participation” he stated.

Then, the Delta state government directed security agencies to investigate and prosecute anyone found culpable in a political clash between suspected supporters of the NDC and APC in Effurun.

The State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Charles Aniagwu, said Oborevwori had directed security agencies to thoroughly investigate the incident, stressing that political rivalry must not be allowed to degenerate into thuggery or intimidation.

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.

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.