By Oghenefejiro Emado
19, September 2026
The Delta State Government has strongly condemned the political violence that erupted in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area, involving suspected supporters of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) and the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The government declared that it will not tolerate any attempt by individuals or political groups to breach the peace and security of the state.
Speaking on Friday, the State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, said Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has ordered a full-scale investigation into the incident and directed security agencies to fish out everyone involved.
Aniagwu said the government was disturbed after a video of the clash went viral on social media, showing supporters engaging in acts capable of causing unrest.
According to him, the Oborevwori administration has maintained a clear position from day one — zero tolerance for political thuggery, intimidation, and violence, no matter which party is involved.
“Governor Oborevwori has directed the security agencies to investigate the incident and ensure that whoever is found to have participated in the act is made to face the full weight of the law,” Aniagwu stated.
He emphasized that Delta State remains open for peaceful political campaigns by all parties, candidates, and supporters, and no one has the right to stop, harass, or intimidate others from campaigning in any part of the state as long as they operate within the law.
The Commissioner noted that political campaigns should be about ideas, programmes, and performance records, not about fighting or physical dominance. He said disagreements over party affiliation must never be allowed to threaten community peace or endanger lives.
He added that the present administration has recorded major achievements across the three senatorial districts under the MORE Agenda and will continue to take its scorecard to Deltans, without resorting to violence or confrontation.
Aniagwu warned supporters of both the ruling party and opposition parties to conduct themselves responsibly and play by the rules of democratic engagement.
He stressed that political affiliation will not protect anyone who breaks the law.
“Political affiliation is not a shield against the law. If anybody commits an offence, the law should take its course. We cannot preach peace and at the same time tolerate people who undermine it,” he said.
He called on political leaders, candidates, youth groups, and community stakeholders to caution their followers and ensure all campaign activities remain peaceful before, during, and after the election period.
He also charged security agencies to stay vigilant, remain neutral, and provide a level playing field for all political parties, noting that the safety of citizens and protection of their democratic rights must remain the top priority.
The state government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting lawful political activities, but warned it will deal decisively with anyone who attempts to disrupt public peace or prevent others from exercising their democratic rights.
“No election, political ambition or party interest is worth the life of any Deltan,” Aniagwu concluded, urging politicians to compete with superior ideas, not violence.
