EFFURUN, Delta State — The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has raised concerns over what it described as alleged political intimidation, violence and thuggery during a recent political rally in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State.
The Director-General of the NDC Delta State Governorship Campaign Organisation, Mulade Alfred, made the call in a statement, urging the Delta State Commissioner of Police, the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to urgently investigate the incident and identify those allegedly responsible.
Mulade described the reported disruption of what he said was a peaceful political gathering as unacceptable, warning that violence and the alleged use of political thugs should not be allowed to characterise political activities ahead of the 2027 governorship election in the state.
He said the NDC would not be deterred by what he described as attempts to intimidate its members and supporters, insisting that the party would continue to engage voters across Delta State through peaceful means.
According to him, political contests should be centred on ideas, policies and the ability of candidates to address the concerns of the people, rather than intimidation or street violence.
«“We will not be intimidated. Political differences must be settled through democratic processes and not through violence, threats or the activities of political thugs.»
«“We call on the DSS and the Inspector-General of Police to act immediately, investigate the allegations and ensure that anyone found culpable faces the law.”»
The NDC campaign organisation said the emerging 2027 governorship contest should focus on issues affecting residents, including economic opportunities, security, accountability, infrastructure and effective delivery of public services.
The organisation is backing its consensus governorship candidate, Dcn. Chris Iyovwaye, whose campaign platform, according to the NDC, is centred on accountability, economic development, security and improved public service delivery.
Its proposed development programme, known as “Delta Vision 2035,” contains an 11-point agenda which the campaign says is designed to offer an alternative approach to governance in the state.
The campaign also said its grassroots structure, known as the OK Rapid Squad, is mobilising supporters across Delta State’s 25 local government areas to promote peaceful political participation and encourage vigilance in protecting votes during elections.
Mulade further appealed to political stakeholders to avoid actions capable of escalating political tension, stressing that residents of Delta deserve a peaceful and issue-based political environment.
He said the NDC would remain committed to engaging Deltans and presenting its programmes to the electorate despite what he described as attempts to frustrate its activities.
“We will not be intimidated. We will not be silent. Delta must be free.
“We urge all political actors to respect the democratic process and allow every party and candidate to campaign freely. Those behind any act of violence should be fished out and made to face the law.”
The NDC consequently called on security agencies to remain neutral and ensure that political activities in Delta State are conducted peacefully as preparations for the 2027 governorship election intensify.
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