Asaba Political Violence: Police Confirm One Dead, Delta Govt Urges Probe

The Delta State Police Command has confirmed the death of one person following a violent attack on supporters of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) during a political rally in Asaba, the state capital. The police said five other persons were seriously injured. The incident, which occurred on Saturday, November 7, 2026, along the busy Nnebisi Road, has triggered accusations and counter-accusations between the opposition NDC and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), raising fresh concerns about the safety of political activities ahead of the

2027 general elections

. The police said it has commenced a full-scale investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the violence and identify those responsible. Police spokesperson, SP Bright Edafe, said the rally was organised by the Obedient/OK Movement in support of the NDC presidential candidate. According to the police, the Command had received intelligence indicating the possibility of violence before the rally and consequently invited the organisers to a security meeting.

SP Edafe explained that during the meeting, the organisers were briefed on the identified security threats and advised against embarking on an open-road procession.

Instead, the police reportedly recommended that the political activities be conducted at a designated venue where adequate security arrangements could be provided.

However, the Command alleged that the organisers disregarded the security advice and proceeded with the road procession.

Meanwhile, the Delta State Government has condemned the political violence that erupted in Asaba, the state capital, on Saturday, confirming that one person was killed while four others sustained serious injuries.

The government described the incident as unfortunate and unacceptable, warning political parties and their supporters against actions capable of threatening public peace, security and democratic participation in the state.

In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, the government reiterated its zero tolerance for political violence, intimidation and other forms of political misconduct.

Mr Aniagwu said the government had repeatedly cautioned political parties against engaging in activities capable of disrupting the peace, insisting that the incident could have been avoided if the organisers had followed security advice.

According to him, the police had advised the organisers to cancel the proposed street march and instead conduct their political campaign at a designated venue where adequate security arrangements could be provided.

He expressed concern that the advice was allegedly disregarded, resulting in a confrontation that claimed one life and left four other people seriously injured.

The government subsequently called on the police to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the violence and ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to justice.

Mr Aniagwu further warned that the state government would not tolerate politically motivated attacks against any individual, regardless of political affiliation.

He maintained that Delta State remained safe for residents and visitors, stressing that the government would not allow the actions of individuals or groups to undermine the prevailing peace and security in the state.

The government also urged political parties, their leaders and supporters to conduct their political activities within the confines of the law and demonstrate respect for human life, public order and the rights of other citizens.

The latest development follows an attack on supporters of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) during a political procession in Asaba, which reportedly left several participants injured and campaign vehicles vandalised.

The government’s condemnation comes amid growing concerns over political violence and the safety of opposition supporters as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.