The growing political tension ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general election has taken a disturbing turn following deadly violence during an opposition procession in Asaba, Delta State.
The incident, which occurred along Nnebisi Road, reportedly left one person dead and five others injured during an event organised by the Obidient/OK Movement to mobilise support for Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate Peter Obi and his running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso.
The Delta State Government has now called for an investigation to establish what happened and identify those responsible.
The state government said organisers should have followed police advice to use a designated venue instead of holding an open-road procession. However, the movement’s state coordinator, Favour Emerure, disputed that account, saying the organisers had notified the police and complied with instructions concerning the route.
The police had earlier said they warned of possible violence and responded to a distress call after the incident.
The conflicting accounts have raised questions about the security arrangements and how the confrontation started. So far, the identities and political affiliations of those responsible have not been established.
Peter Obi has condemned the violence and called for those behind the attack to be identified and prosecuted.
As political activities increase, the incident is a reminder that campaigns should never become an excuse for violence. Nigerians must be able to support their preferred candidates without fear of being attacked.
