By Joyce Ekeh
Political violence erupted in Asaba, Delta State, on Saturday, leaving one person dead and five others injured after a clash involving supporters of Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso during a political procession organised by the Obedient/OK Movement.
The Delta State Police Command, which confirmed the casualty figures, said it had launched a full-scale investigation into the incident, which occurred around 12:15 p.m. along Nnebisi Road in the state capital.
The movement was reportedly campaigning in support of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate as political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections gathered momentum.
In a press statement, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, said the incident resulted in one death and injuries to five other persons.
“The Delta State Police Command has commenced a full-scale investigation into a violent incident involving supporters during a political rally organised by the Obedient/OK Movement in support of the presidential candidate of Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Asaba on Saturday, which resulted in the death of one person and injuries to five others,” Edafe said.
The Command disclosed that it had received intelligence indicating the possibility of violence before the procession and subsequently summoned the organisers for a security meeting.
According to the police, the organisers were briefed on the identified security threats and advised against conducting an open road procession.
“Prior to the rally, the Command received an intelligence report indicating the likelihood of violence and consequently invited the organisers to a security meeting.
“During the engagement, they were briefed on the identified security threats and advised against holding an open road procession. They were further encouraged to conduct their political activities at a designated venue where appropriate security would be provided for them.
“However, the organisers ignored this important security advice and proceeded with the road procession,” the statement said.
The police said the violence broke out at approximately 12:15 p.m. along Nnebisi Road, resulting in the death of one person and injuries to five others.
The identities of the deceased and injured persons had yet to be established as of the time of the police statement.
Edafe said officers responded after receiving a distress call and immediately mobilised to the scene.
“Upon receiving a distress call, police operatives mobilised to the scene and took the injured victims to the hospital for medical attention.
“Security was subsequently reinforced in the affected area to forestall further breakdown of law and order, while investigations are ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify those responsible,” he added.
Condemning the violence, the Commissioner of Police, CP Samuel E. Erale, said political parties and their supporters were free to conduct lawful political activities but must ensure that public safety was not compromised.
He advised political organisations to avoid road processions and engage the police ahead of rallies and other public gatherings to enable adequate security arrangements.
The commissioner also assured residents that the Command would conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the incident.
He urged anyone with useful information that could assist investigators to contact the police through 09155570008 or 09155570007.
The incident has renewed concerns about the safety of political gatherings in Delta State, particularly as political parties and support groups intensify activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.
It also highlights the importance of early security consultations, responsible political mobilisation and respect for safety guidelines during public campaigns.
