One Dead, Five Injured as Violence Erupts at Peter Obi Supporters’ Rally in Delta

One person has been confirmed dead, while five others sustained injuries following a violent clash at a political rally organised by supporters of former presidential candidate Peter Obi in Asaba, Delta State.

The incident reportedly occurred around 12:15 pm on Saturday along Nnebisi Road during a procession organised by the Obidient/OK Movement in support of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate.

The Delta State Police Command confirmed the development, stating that an investigation had commenced to determine the circumstances surrounding the violence and identify those responsible.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, the command had received intelligence reports indicating a possible security threat ahead of the procession.

He explained that the organisers were subsequently invited to a security meeting, where they were briefed about the potential dangers and advised against conducting an open-road procession.

The police said the organisers were encouraged to hold their political activities at an approved venue where adequate security arrangements could be provided. However, the advice was reportedly ignored, and the procession proceeded as planned.

Following the outbreak of violence, police operatives were immediately deployed to the scene after receiving a distress call. The injured victims were evacuated to a hospital for medical attention.

The command added that security had been reinforced in the affected area, assuring residents that investigations were ongoing.

Reacting to the incident, Peter Obi expressed sadness and concern over reports of attacks on members and coordinators of the NDC and the Obidient Movement in Delta State.

The former Anambra State governor strongly condemned the violence, insisting that political disagreements should never result in bloodshed or the loss of innocent lives.

He maintained that no political ambition was worth the life of any Nigerian and called on the government and relevant security agencies to conduct an immediate and comprehensive investigation.

Obi also urged authorities to identify and prosecute everyone involved in the violence, regardless of their political affiliations.

Meanwhile, the Delta State Police Command reiterated its commitment to uncovering the circumstances surrounding the incident and ensuring that those found culpable are brought to justice.