The Guild of Online Media Editors and Publishers of Nigeria (GOMEP-NG) has raised the alarm over alleged attempts to disrupt opposition political consultations in Delta State, warning political leaders in Delta Central against actions capable of damaging the image of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration.
National President of GOMEP-NG, Comrade Akpovoke Otiti, made the call in a statement on Monday, urging political actors in Delta Central to allow opposition groups to hold their meetings peacefully, stressing that political consultations and mobilisation are legitimate parts of democratic participation.
His reaction followed reports of alleged disruptions at political gatherings in Usiephrun, Ughelli South, and Abraka, Ethiope East.
Otiti described the reported incidents as troubling, particularly because opposition political activities have reportedly continued in other senatorial districts without similar disruptions.
“Why are we shaming the governor?” Otiti asked, arguing that political disagreements should be resolved through dialogue, persuasion and the ballot box rather than intimidation or violence.
He pointed to Delta North, where Governor Oborevwori reportedly received significant electoral support, noting that opposition consultations were not treated as a threat to the administration. He also observed that political activities have continued in Delta South.
According to him, it is therefore difficult to understand why political actors in Delta Central would allegedly seek to prevent opposition politicians from meeting with their supporters.
Otiti warned that such actions could create the impression that Governor Oborevwori or his administration condones political intolerance, potentially damaging both the governor’s reputation and Delta State’s democratic credentials.
The GOMEP-NG president also expressed concern over reports of a recent political clash in which a serving commissioner was allegedly arrested and remanded, describing the development as a serious warning that political disagreements must not be allowed to escalate into violence.
“Can’t we just learn from other ethnic nationalities?” he asked, calling on Delta’s political class to embrace tolerance and give all political interests the freedom to operate peacefully.
Otiti specifically urged APC leaders and other political stakeholders in Delta Central to restrain their supporters and reject the use of thugs or violence against political opponents.
He maintained that no political party has a monopoly over public spaces or the authority to determine who can hold a lawful political meeting, stressing that the ultimate measure of political strength should be the people’s votes.
He also appealed to Governor Oborevwori to ensure that Delta remains politically peaceful and democratic, warning that unchecked violence could eventually damage the administration regardless of who is responsible for individual incidents.
“Let everybody be allowed to consult, mobilise and campaign peacefully. The people of Delta deserve politics without intimidation, violence or thuggery,” Otiti said.
He urged all political parties and political leaders to place the peace and stability of Delta State above partisan interests, reminding them that political power is temporary, while the consequences of violence can remain for generations.
Discover more from NATIONAL BEAM
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
