A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State, Dr Tonye Timi, has condemned the violence that erupted during a road procession by supporters of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) along Nnebisi Road, Asaba, leaving one person dead and five others injured.
Timi, Secretary of the Media and Publicity Committee of the Delta APC Campaign Council, described the incident as unfortunate, warning against the escalation of political differences into violence ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The clash occurred around 12:15 p.m. on Saturday during a procession organised by the Obi/Kwankwaso (OK) Movement in support of the NDC and its presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
The Delta State Police Command confirmed that one person died while five others sustained injuries during the incident.
Speaking in a telephone interview on Sunday, Timi expressed sympathy with the family of the deceased and those injured, insisting that no political ambition or disagreement could justify the loss of lives or destruction of property.
He urged political parties and their supporters to embrace peaceful democratic competition through constructive engagement, policy proposals and discussions on governance.
Timi said the APC had committed itself to peaceful and issue-based campaigns following the inauguration of its state campaign council, adding that the party’s position remained unchanged.
He also urged political actors to comply with the advisory issued by the police against road processions because of their potential security implications.
According to him, political parties, candidates and campaign organisations must maintain effective communication with security agencies and respect their professional assessments when organising political activities.
On the circumstances surrounding the clash, Timi called for a thorough, transparent and impartial police investigation, urging the authorities to identify and prosecute anyone found responsible.
He cautioned against speculation and premature accusations, stressing that accountability should be based on evidence, regardless of the political affiliation or position of those involved.
The APC chieftain further appealed to political leaders to caution their supporters against inflammatory statements and actions capable of threatening peace in the state.
He urged residents of Delta State to reject political violence, promote tolerance and protect the state’s peace and security as political activities ahead of the 2027 elections gather momentum.