The Delta State Government has ordered an investigation into the violence that erupted at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI), Effurun, even as fresh political accusations continue to trail the incident.
The development comes after the Special Adviser on Strategy and Communications to former Deputy Senate President, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, Godwin Anaughe, alleged that armed thugs attacked a meeting of APC leaders and stakeholders, leaving the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Hon. Temple Mudi, injured.
In a statement, Anaughe described the incident as “political thuggery, plain and simple,” alleging it was part of a pattern of intimidation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He also linked the incident to an earlier alleged attack on National Democratic Congress (NDC) governorship candidate, Deacon Chris Iyovwaye, in Agholokpe, calling on the police, the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security agencies to investigate both cases.
“We have credible intelligence that the APC is planning a coordinated campaign of violence and intimidation for the 2027 elections,” the statement alleged.
However, the Delta State Government said it was deeply disturbed by videos circulating on social media and had directed security agencies to unravel the circumstances surrounding the violence and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
The government condemned all forms of political violence, stressing that no individual or group should take the law into their own hands, regardless of political affiliation.
It also appealed to political actors to embrace peaceful engagement and avoid actions capable of threatening public order.
Meanwhile, the Delta State chapter of the APC has denied reports that its stakeholders’ meeting was disrupted by violence, insisting the event ended peacefully and was broadcast live.
The party maintained that the viral videos being circulated were recorded at a different location within the expansive PTI complex and not inside the conference venue where the meeting took place.
As investigations continue, political stakeholders have renewed calls for restraint and peaceful conduct as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum.
