The Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty Professor Epiphany Azinge, has warned President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) that political thuggery and intimidation will not be tolerated in Delta State ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The traditional ruler called on the APC and its leaders to allow democracy to flourish peacefully without harming opposition members or forcing political groups to seek permission before exercising their constitutional rights.
Azinge insisted that every political party must be allowed to operate freely and participate in democratic activities without threats, harassment or unnecessary restrictions.
His warning comes days after violence erupted in Asaba on Saturday, November 7, during a campaign procession organised by supporters of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
The procession, which was organised to mobilise support for presidential aspirants Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso, reportedly began as a peaceful march from Summit Road towards Interbau Roundabout before turning chaotic along Nnebisi Road.
The incident reportedly claimed one life, left several participants injured and resulted in damage to more than 30 vehicles, including campaign buses.
Leaders of the NDC and former Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo-Agege accused armed individuals allegedly linked to the ruling APC and elements within the Delta State Government of being responsible for 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 rejected the accusations. Both sides have condemned the violence and called for a thorough investigation by security agencies.
The police confirmed the death and injuries, while investigations continue to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify those responsible.
Speaking against the growing political tension, Professor Azinge, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), stressed that citizens have constitutional rights to freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly.
He maintained that these rights must be protected and exercised without fear, intimidation or violence.
The monarch also explained that although the former Public Order Act no longer provides the basis for requiring permits for public gatherings under the current constitutional framework, organisers of political rallies should engage the police for security support and protection during processions.
He clarified that such engagement should be aimed at preventing clashes and maintaining public safety rather than obtaining permission to exercise constitutionally guaranteed rights.
Azinge warned that nobody should turn Asaba into a theatre of political conflict, insisting that political competition must never come at the expense of human lives and public peace.
He described Asaba as Nigeria’s most peaceful state capital, stressing that peace has remained one of the major foundations of the city’s development and growth.
Although the traditional ruler has previously expressed support for President Tinubu, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and APC candidates, he made it clear that the safety and peaceful atmosphere of Asaba must take priority over partisan political interests.
The warning has renewed attention on the safety of opposition activities as political parties begin preparations for the 2027 general elections.
With allegations and counterclaims continuing between opposition figures, the ruling party and the state government, calls are growing for security agencies to investigate the Asaba violence, ensure accountability and prevent further attacks.
The Asagba’s position is that every political party must have the freedom to campaign, organise rallies and pursue its ambitions peacefully without intimidation.
As the country approaches the 2027 elections, the message remains clear: political differences must not become an excuse for violence, and democracy must be protected for everyone.
