Delta 2027: NDC Candidate Chris Iyovwaye Raises Alarm Over APC-sponsored Attack, Vows to ‘Reset’ State

By Our Correspondent, Asaba

The governorship candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Delta State, Deacon Chris Iyovwaye, has called for an immediate investigation into what he described as an orchestrated attack by suspected thugs allegedly sponsored by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to disrupt his homecoming rally in Okpe Local Government Area.

In a strong-worded statement issued after the visit on Saturday, Iyovwaye, who was accompanied by his wife, Deaconess Leri Iyovwaye, revealed that hired thugs attempted to bar him from entering the Aghalokpe community Town Hall and disrupt his engagement with family and supporters.

“Despite attempts by some persons suspected to be thugs allegedly sponsored by the Delta State APC to disrupt our visit and prevent us from accessing the community Town Hall, our engagement with our people was robust and successful,” Iyovwaye said.

The NDC flagbearer commended his supporters for exercising what he called “maximum restraint in the face of provocation,” noting that their discipline averted what could have escalated into a serious confrontation.

“While the incident was unfortunate, I commend our supporters for their discipline and commitment to peace. It prevented what could have escalated into a serious confrontation,” he stated.

‘No One Has a Monopoly on Violence’

Iyovwaye, however, issued a stern warning against further intimidation, insisting that his party remains committed to democratic principles but would not be cowed by political thuggery.

“I wish to make it abundantly clear that while we remain law-abiding and committed to democratic principles, such acts of intimidation and political violence must never be allowed to happen again. No one has a monopoly on violence. However, our commitment is to peace, the rule of law, and the democratic process. That commitment should never be mistaken for weakness,” he declared.

He called on Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to rein in his supporters and ensure a level playing field for all political parties. He also urged the Inspector-General of Police, the Delta State Commissioner of Police, and the State Director of the Department of State Services (DSS) to launch a thorough investigation and bring those responsible to justice.

“Democracy cannot flourish where political opponents are attacked simply for meeting with their own people,” Iyovwaye added.

‘Reset Delta’ Agenda Gains Momentum

The incident comes as Iyovwaye’s campaign gathers steam ahead of the 2027 elections, with the NDC candidate positioning himself as the “surprise package” capable of unseating the ruling establishment.

Iyovwaye’s platform, anchored on a promise to “Reset Delta,” has already received significant backing from grassroots groups and political figures, including the Save Urhobo Youth Forum (SUYF) and prominent lawyer Kingsley Akpederin, who recently predicted an upset in the forthcoming election .

The NDC candidate has unveiled a strategic blueprint focused on harnessing Delta’s vast gas resources for industrialization, job creation, and economic transformation, a departure from what critics describe as years of governance failure and the undue influence of political godfathers .

“We urge the Delta State APC to engage constructively on matters affecting the welfare and progress of our people rather than resorting to intimidation and violence,” Iyovwaye said.

“The Nigeria Democratic Congress is ready to provide a credible alternative for the people of Delta State. Our party has remained focused on issues, good governance, and practical solutions to the challenges confronting our state,” he added.

The NDC candidate’s defiant stance underscores the rising political temperature in Delta State as opposition forces coalesce around the promise of a new political dawn, seeking to wrest control from the ruling party.