2027 Elections: Asaba Monarch Warns Tinubu, APC Against Political Violence in Delta
The Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty Professor Epiphany Azinge, has warned President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) against political intimidation, thuggery and violence in Delta State ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The monarch insisted that all political parties must be allowed to operate freely, organise rallies and mobilise supporters without harassment, threats or unnecessary restrictions.
Azinge’s warning follows the violence that erupted in Asaba on Saturday, November 7, during a campaign procession organised by supporters of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
The procession, which was reportedly organised to mobilise support for Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso, began peacefully along Summit Road before turning violent around Interbau Roundabout and Nnebisi Road.
The incident reportedly left one person dead, several others injured and more than 30 vehicles, including campaign buses, damaged.
NDC leaders and former Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo-Agege accused individuals allegedly linked to the APC and elements within the Delta State Government of orchestrating the attack.
They also identified a local task force official as a central figure in the allegations.
However, the APC and the Delta State Government have denied the accusations, condemned the violence and called for a thorough investigation.
The police have confirmed the death and injuries, while investigations are ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify those responsible.
Reacting to the development, Azinge, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), emphasised that freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly are constitutionally guaranteed rights that must be protected.
He maintained that no political party or group should be prevented from exercising these rights through intimidation or violence.
The traditional ruler further explained that political rally organisers are not required to obtain permits under the former Public Order Act, which no longer provides the legal basis for restricting peaceful public gatherings.
However, he encouraged organisers to notify and engage the police for security arrangements to prevent clashes and protect participants.
He stressed that such engagement should be for public safety, not an attempt to seek permission to exercise constitutionally guaranteed freedoms.
Azinge warned against turning Asaba into a battleground for political supremacy, insisting that political competition must never result in the loss of innocent lives or destruction of property.
Describing Asaba as one of Nigeria’s most peaceful state capitals, the monarch said the city’s peaceful atmosphere remains fundamental to its development and growth.
Although Azinge has previously expressed support for President Tinubu, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and APC candidates, he maintained that protecting lives and preserving peace in Asaba must take precedence over partisan political interests.
His intervention has renewed concerns about the safety of opposition parties and their supporters as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 elections.
With accusations and counter-accusations surrounding the Asaba violence, pressure is mounting on security agencies to conduct an impartial investigation, identify the perpetrators and ensure accountability.
The monarch’s central message is that every political party must enjoy equal freedom to campaign, organise rallies and pursue its political ambitions without intimidation.
As Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections, Azinge insists that political differences must not be allowed to undermine public peace, democratic freedoms and the safety of citizens.
