The governorship candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Delta State, Deacon Chris Iyovwaye, has alleged that suspected thugs sponsored by the All Progressives Congress (APC) attacked his supporters and disrupted a consultation meeting during a campaign visit to a community in the state.
Iyovwaye claimed the attackers attempted to prevent him and members of his campaign team from gaining access to the community town hall, creating tension and allegedly destroying property in what he described as an effort to intimidate the opposition ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
Speaking on the incident, the NDC flag bearer said the alleged attack would not derail his party’s determination to offer Deltans what he described as a credible alternative government.
He praised his supporters for exercising restraint despite what he called serious provocation, noting that their calm response prevented the situation from escalating into violence.
“I commend our supporters for remaining peaceful in the face of provocation. No amount of intimidation will stop our resolve to campaign across Delta State and present our vision for good governance,” Iyovwaye said.
He condemned the alleged destruction of property, insisting that violence, intimidation and political harassment have no place in a democratic society.
The governorship hopeful called on Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to ensure that all political parties are given equal opportunities to campaign freely without fear of attacks or harassment.
Iyovwaye also appealed to the Inspector-General of Police, the Delta State Commissioner of Police and the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS) in the state to launch a thorough investigation into the incident and prosecute anyone found culpable.
“Democracy cannot flourish where political opponents are attacked simply for meeting with their own people,” he stated.
Reaffirming the party’s commitment to peaceful political engagement, Iyovwaye said the NDC would continue to focus on issue-based campaigns centred on good governance, practical solutions and people-oriented leadership.
He maintained that although “no one has a monopoly on violence,” the party would continue to pursue its political activities within the confines of the law while working to restore public confidence in governance and offer hope to the people of Delta State.
As of the time the report was filed, the Delta State chapter of the APC had not issued any response to the allegations made by the NDC candidate.