APC Congress in Delta State Descends into Chaos, Lawmaker Ibori-Suenu Escapes Unharmed
In a shocking turn of events, the All Progressives Congress (APC) congress in Ethiope West Local Government Area of Delta State erupted into violence on Saturday, forcing the member representing Ethiope Federal Constituency, Hon. Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu, to flee the scene to avoid harm. The incident, which left several party members injured and heightened political tensions, underscores the volatile nature of intra-party politics in the region.
Congress Venue Change Sparks Tension and Violence
The congress was originally slated to take place at the Oghara Township Stadium but was abruptly relocated to Ovade within the same local government area. This last-minute change reportedly fueled anxiety and discord among attendees, setting the stage for the subsequent unrest. Upon Ibori-Suenu's arrival at the new venue, violence broke out, with supporters alleging that suspected thugs launched an attack on party members. The assault resulted in multiple injuries, and some of the victims were rushed to nearby hospitals for urgent medical treatment.
Security concerns escalated rapidly, with sources at the scene indicating that the lawmaker was barred from entering the congress ground due to safety risks. Her aides revealed that there had been explicit threats against her life, but thanks to the swift action of her security detail, she managed to escape without any physical harm. Ibori-Suenu, who is the daughter of former Delta State Governor James Onanefe Ibori, has since issued a public statement urging her supporters to remain calm and avoid any actions that could worsen the situation.
Political Allegations and Calls for Intervention
In the aftermath of the violence, some party members pointed fingers at key political figures in Delta State, implicating Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and former House of Representatives member Ben Igbakpa in the disruption. These allegations suggest that the chaos may be tied to deeper political rivalries and interests within the state's APC structure. However, as of the latest reports, neither Oborevwori nor Igbakpa has responded to these claims, leaving the situation shrouded in uncertainty.
The lawmaker has appealed to security agencies to step in and restore order, emphasizing the need for a robust security presence to prevent further escalation. Reports indicate that tension continues to simmer in parts of Ethiope West, with party members voicing concerns over inadequate protection and calling for immediate intervention to ensure peace and stability during such political gatherings.
Broader Implications for Delta State Politics
This violent episode at the APC congress highlights the ongoing challenges in Delta State's political landscape, where internal conflicts often spill over into public disturbances. The involvement of high-profile individuals like Ibori-Suenu, with her familial ties to former leadership, adds a layer of complexity to the incident, potentially influencing future party dynamics and electoral strategies. As investigations unfold, stakeholders are closely monitoring developments, hoping for a resolution that prioritizes safety and democratic processes over factional disputes.
