By EDEKI IGAFE

Sen. Ovie Omo-Agege has called for a comprehensive investigation into the recent attack on supporters of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) in Asaba.

The former deputy president of the senate made the call on Sunday in a statement through his Special Adviser, Strategy and Communications, Mr Godwin Anaughe in Warri.

“Thousands of ordinary residents of Delta on Saturday, came out to walk peacefully and campaign for the NDC ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“The residents, led by the Obidient/OK Movement filled the streets, singing and carrying the message of Mr Peter Obi and Sen. Rabiu Kwankwaso of the NDC to the people.

“Suddenly, thugs, fully armed with dangerous weapons, descended on the unarmed campaigners. More than 30 vehicles were smashed, while over 10 of NDC members and supporters were left bleeding heavily,” Omo-Agege stated.

According to him, the police have confirmed one death. Reports say the deceased was one of the attackers.

“One death is one too many. Whoever sent armed thugs into a peaceful march must answer for it.

“We demand the police to identify the deceased, tell us how he died, and prosecute everyone who organised and sponsored this attack,” he further stated.

Omo-Agege, who is contesting for the seat of the Delta Central Senatorial District at the National Assembly on the platform of the NDC, described the attack as “animalistic and barbaric”.

He said the attack was borne out of fear of NDC’s grip on the grassroots in Delta.

The former lawmaker said the Asaba incident was not a one-off, and recalled other incidents in which the party suffered attacks in the state.

“On Aug. 13, in Usiefrun, Ughelli South, armed men attacked our people who had simply gathered to receive us.

“On Aug. 21, over 50 armed men stormed Uvwie and destroyed the venue we had prepared for a campaign meeting.

“Also, on Sept. 18, in Warri and Effurun, our One Million-Man March for Deacon Chris Iyovwaye was ambushed at Angle Park, Uvwie junction, Ugborokoko, Jakpa Road, Urhuomarho,” he said.

Omo-Agege called on security agencies to provide the party with security to march and to do road shows.

He also called on the Insp.-Gen. of Police, Oluwatunji Disu and the Director-General of the Department of State Services, Mr Adeola Ajayi to arrest and prosecute those involved in the attack.

The former legislator urged the party supporters to remain steadfast, assuring that the party’s rallies would be properly guarded.

Omo-Agege, while thanking the bystanders, shop owners, traders, and artisans for their quick intervention in the attack, urged the youth not to allow themselves to be used as thugs. (NAN)