The All Progressives Congress (APC) Ethiope West Local Government Area Congress turned violent on Saturday after suspected political thugs allegedly attacked party members at the venue.
Sources told DAILY POST that the congress was moved from its original venue at Oghara Township Stadium to Ovade in Ethiope West Local Government Area, a decision some members claimed was aimed at disenfranchising certain party stakeholders.
Trouble began when the Member representing Ethiope Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu, daughter of former Delta State Governor, Chief James Onanefe Ibori, arrived at the new venue in Ovade.
Eyewitnesses alleged that armed thugs, reportedly sponsored by powerful political actors, threatened her life and attacked her supporters with dangerous weapons. She was also allegedly denied access to the venue.
Reports indicate that several attempts to harm her were thwarted by her security aides, while supporters engaged in a free-for-all.
An eyewitness, John Ovie, claimed Ibori-Suenu might have been shot if she had gained access to the venue.
“This is terrible, especially at a time when there was hope that peace was returning to the party following the recent meeting in Asaba. This development shows that peace is still far off,” he said.
Ibori-Suenu has since appealed for calm among APC members amid rising tension.
Sources further revealed that several injured persons are receiving treatment at undisclosed hospitals. There are also allegations of targeted attacks against members of the “Old APC,” prompting calls for security agencies to intervene and restore order.
