The Special Adviser on Strategy and Communications to former Deputy Senate President, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, Mr. Godwin Anaughe, has expressed concern over what he described as a growing wave of political violence in Delta State, alleging that recent attacks on political figures could signal a dangerous trend ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Anaughe condemned an incident that reportedly occurred during a meeting of All Progressives Congress (APC) leaders and stakeholders at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI) Conference Centre in Effurun on Sunday, July 26, where he alleged that the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Hon. Temple Mudi, was attacked by suspected thugs armed with stones, machetes and bottles.
Describing the incident as “political thuggery,” Anaughe said the disruption of a meeting involving leaders of a registered political party and the alleged assault on a serving government official should concern all residents of Delta State.
According to him, the incident is not isolated but part of what he claimed is an emerging pattern of politically motivated violence as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.
Anaughe also referenced an earlier incident involving the NDC governorship candidate, Deacon Chris Iyovwaye, who he alleged was attacked by hoodlums while attempting to visit his community in Aghalokpe. He claimed the governorship candidate was prevented from reaching the community town hall.
The Omo-Agege aide further alleged that the APC was planning a coordinated campaign of intimidation and violence aimed at opposition leaders and strongholds ahead of the 2027 elections. However, he did not provide evidence to substantiate the allegation.
He urged security agencies to investigate both incidents, insisting that those responsible should be identified and prosecuted.
“The Delta State Commissioner of Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Inspector-General of Police should conduct a thorough investigation into both the Aghalokpe and Effurun incidents, identify those behind the attacks, prosecute them, and ensure that Delta State does not witness further political violence before the 2027 elections,” he said.
Anaughe also appealed to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), civil society organisations and the international community to closely monitor political developments in Delta State, particularly in Delta Central, describing the recent incidents as early warning signs that require urgent attention.
He reaffirmed his principal’s commitment to peaceful and issue-based politics, calling on political actors and residents to reject violence and uphold the sanctity of the ballot.
