A political rally in Asaba has turned deadly, with the Nigeria police placing the blame squarely on the Nigeria Democratic Congress for failing to follow critical security protocols prior to a violent attack that left one person dead and five others injured on Saturday November 7.
In a statement, the command’s spokesman SP. Bright Edafe Police said intelligence gathered ahead of the gathering explicitly warned of impending violence, prompting officials to advise organizers backing the Presidential ambition of Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso against an open road procession in favour of a secured venue — a warning the party chose to ignore.
”Political parties are free to conduct lawful campaigns and other political activities.
However, we advise all political parties and their supporters to avoid road processions in the interest of public safety and to liaise with the Police ahead of any political gatherings to facilitate adequate security arrangements.”
Responding, the Commissioner of Police in Delta State, CP Samuel Erale, recalled:
“At around 12:15 p.m., violence erupted along the procession route”.
Police operatives responded to distress calls, rushing the injured to the hospital and reinforcing security across the area to restore order.
A full-scale investigation is currently underway to identify the victims and track down those responsible for the attack.
Police are urging anyone with useful information to contact the command immediately at 09155570008 or 09155570007.
