ASABA/Nigeria: The Delta State Government has warned political parties, their leaders and supporters against conduct capable of undermining public safety, following the deadly violence that disrupted a political procession in Asaba, leaving one person dead and several others injured.
The warning was contained in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, who said the state government would not tolerate political violence, intimidation or any form of misconduct capable of threatening peaceful coexistence.
Aniagwu described the incident as regrettable and unacceptable, stressing that political competition should not come at the expense of human life or public security.
He said the government had repeatedly cautioned political parties against organising activities that could disrupt public order, adding that the violence might have been prevented if the organisers had complied with security advice.
According to the commissioner, the police had advised the organisers of the procession to abandon the proposed street march and instead conduct their campaign at a designated location where adequate security arrangements could be made.
The government expressed concern that the organisers allegedly disregarded the advice, resulting in a confrontation that claimed one life and left four other persons seriously injured, according to its statement.
It consequently called on the Delta State Police Command to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident and ensure that anyone found responsible is prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The government also issued a strong warning against politically motivated attacks, maintaining that no individual or group would be permitted to threaten the safety of others on account of political differences or party affiliation.
Aniagwu reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to maintaining security across Delta State, insisting that the state must remain safe for residents, visitors and people conducting legitimate business activities.
He said the government would not allow the actions of individuals or groups to undermine the relative peace in the state, particularly as political activities continue to gather momentum.
The commissioner urged political parties, their leaders and supporters to exercise restraint, respect human life and ensure that their campaigns and other political engagements remain within the boundaries of the law.
He maintained that political disagreements should be resolved through democratic engagement and lawful processes rather than actions that could endanger lives, destroy property or threaten public order.
