Comrade Umokoro Efemena, popularly known as Akima, has condemned the reported attack on supporters of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) during Saturday’s political rally in Asaba, Delta State, demanding urgent action against those responsible.
In a strongly worded statement titled “Enough Is Enough! Delta State Is Not a War Zone!”, Efemena accused suspected political thugs of repeatedly harassing, intimidating and obstructing opposition activities across the state.
He specifically condemned the November 7 attack on NDC supporters during their One Million Man March from Summit Road towards Interbau Roundabout in Asaba, alleging that the attackers were sponsored by elements linked to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The incident reportedly left several participants injured and campaign vehicles vandalised, while supporters were forced to flee as violence erupted.
Efemena questioned why opposition supporters should face intimidation for exercising their constitutional rights to political association, peaceful assembly and participation in the democratic process.
He also disclosed that he was personally attacked and stabbed in Warri a few months ago under what he described as similar circumstances, expressing concern that the reported incident in Asaba suggested a continuing pattern of political hostility.
“A few months ago, I was personally attacked and stabbed in Warri under similar circumstances. Today, the ugly trend appears to be repeating itself in Asaba. How long are we expected to tolerate this madness?” he asked.
Declaring that opposition members would not surrender their democratic rights, Efemena urged NDC supporters to remain resolute, organised and committed to defending themselves through lawful means.
“We will not be intimidated, we will not be silenced, and we will not surrender our democratic rights!” he declared.
He maintained that an attack on any opposition member was an attack on the collective democratic freedom of citizens, warning political actors against creating an atmosphere in which disagreement could lead to physical violence.
Efemena also called on security agencies to act swiftly, investigate the Asaba incident and ensure that anyone found responsible, including alleged sponsors, is held accountable.
“Delta State belongs to all of us, not one political party,” he stated.
The Asaba incident has attracted widespread condemnation, with the NDC demanding a transparent investigation and the arrest of those responsible. The Obidient Movement has also reported that its Delta State Deputy Coordinator, Comrade Noah, sustained alleged dagger wounds and was hospitalised following the violence.
However, allegations linking APC members to the attack have not been independently established. Delta APC spokespersons have rejected claims of the party’s involvement, while the state government and security agencies face calls to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The latest development has renewed concerns about political tolerance and the safety of opposition supporters as activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Efemena ended his statement with a strong appeal for an end to political violence and intimidation, insisting that no political party should have a monopoly over public spaces or democratic participation.
“Enough of political violence. Enough of intimidation. Nigerians and Deltans must wake up!” he declared.
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