Protest Erupts in Delta After Killing at NDC Rally
There was protest in Delta State following the killing of a man during a political rally organised by supporters of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Asaba.
Members of a task force reportedly took to the streets on Monday to protest the killing of their colleague, who was among those affected by the violence that occurred during the political procession on Saturday, November 7.
The protest comes two days after suspected thugs allegedly attacked supporters of the NDC during a rally in the state, leaving one person dead and several others injured.
The incident has generated reactions, including from Nigerian lawyer and human rights activist, Deji Adeyanju, who criticised the circumstances surrounding a video that emerged after the killing.
Adeyanju expressed shock that an individual was allegedly seen granting an interview at the scene of the incident while holding what appeared to be a murder weapon.
In a post on X, the lawyer condemned the conduct of those captured in the video.
“Many Nigerians are so ignorant gosh! Granting an interview at a scene of crime holding a murder weapon is crazy. Even Netflix will be surprised!” he wrote.
The violence occurred during a political procession organised by the Obedient/OK Movement on Saturday along Nnebisi Road in Asaba.
The Delta State Police Command confirmed that one person was killed while five others sustained injuries during the clash.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, the command said it had commenced a full-scale investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify those responsible.
According to the police, intelligence reports received before the rally indicated the possibility of violence, prompting the command to invite the organisers to a security meeting.
During the meeting, the organisers were reportedly informed of the security concerns and advised against conducting an open-road procession. The police said they recommended that the political activities be held at a designated venue where adequate security arrangements could be provided.
However, the command alleged that the organisers ignored the advice and proceeded with the procession.
The police said the clash occurred at approximately 12:15 p.m., resulting in one death and injuries to five other persons. The identities of the deceased and injured victims were not immediately established.
Following a distress call, police operatives reportedly rushed to the scene and evacuated the injured victims to a hospital for medical attention. Security was also reinforced around the area to prevent further violence.
Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Delta State, CP Samuel E. Erale, condemned the violence and stressed that political parties and their supporters were free to organise lawful campaigns and political activities.
He, however, advised political groups to avoid road processions in the interest of public safety and urged organisers to notify the police before holding political gatherings to ensure adequate security arrangements.
The commissioner assured residents that the command would conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the incident.
