Trending 
The Delta State Police Command has launched an investigation into a violent incident at a political rally in Asaba that claimed one life and left five people injured.
The clash occurred at about 12:15 pm on Saturday along Nnebisi Road during a procession organised by the Obedient/OK Movement in support of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the command’s Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, said security concerns had been raised before the event, prompting the police to invite the organisers for a meeting.
According to the police, the organisers were informed of intelligence indicating a possible outbreak of violence and advised against holding a procession on an open road.
They were instead encouraged to use a designated venue where adequate security arrangements could be provided.
“During the engagement, they were briefed on the identified security threats and advised against holding an open road procession.
“They were further encouraged to conduct their political activities at a designated venue where appropriate security will be provided for the,” the command said.
However, the command said the organisers proceeded with the procession despite the warning.
The police confirmed that one person died in the incident, while five others sustained injuries. It added that the victims’ identities had not yet been established.
Police operatives were deployed to the scene after receiving a distress call and transported the injured to a hospital for treatment.
“At about 12:15 pm today, a violent incident occurred along Nnebisi Road, Asaba, resulting in the death of one person, while five others sustained varying degrees of injuries. The identities of the victims are yet to be ascertained.”
The command said it had increased security presence in the area and begun investigations to determine what triggered the clash and identify those responsible.
Reacting to the incident, Obi expressed sadness over reports that members and coordinators of the NDC and the Obidient Movement had been attacked in Delta State.
The former Anambra State governor condemned the violence, maintaining that political disagreements should not result in attacks or loss of lives.
He called on the government and security agencies to carry out a prompt and comprehensive investigation, identify those behind the incident and ensure they were held accountable regardless of their political affiliations.
The police said their investigation would establish the circumstances surrounding the clash and determine the involvement of those responsible.
