Violence broke out on Saturday at the All Progressives Congress (APC) congress in Ethiope-West Local Government Area of Delta State, as gunmen attacked Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu, the member representing Ethiope Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.
Ibori-Suenu, who is the daughter of former Delta State Governor James Ibori, was reportedly attacked shortly after arriving at the venue of the congress in Ovade community.
Several persons were said to have been injured during the incident, which caused panic among party members and residents in the area.
The congress was organised by the All Progressives Congress (APC) as part of its internal party process to elect officials at the local government level.
According to eyewitness accounts, trouble started soon after Ibori-Suenu and her supporters arrived at the venue. Armed men allegedly attacked the lawmaker and her team with guns and other dangerous weapons.
Sources said the attackers attempted to stop her from entering the venue of the congress. However, her security details reportedly intervened and prevented the situation from getting worse.
Although no death was confirmed as of press time, several people were said to have sustained injuries during the clash.
The incident disrupted the congress and created tension among party members who had gathered for the exercise.
Party congresses are part of the democratic process within political parties in Nigeria. During such congresses, party members elect officials who will lead the party structure at ward, local government, and state levels.
These officials play a key role in preparing the party for future elections and managing its affairs at the grassroots.
However, party congresses in Nigeria are often marked by disputes and competition among different factions within parties. Disagreements over delegate lists, leadership positions, and control of party structures sometimes lead to tension and violence.
Delta State has a long history of intense political rivalry. James Ibori, father of the attacked lawmaker, served as governor of the state from 1999 to 2007 and remains an influential political figure in the region.
His daughter, Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu, was elected to represent Ethiope Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives and has been active in local politics.
The APC in Delta State has been working to strengthen its base as it competes with other political parties for control of the state. Internal disagreements among party members have, however, surfaced in recent times.
Following the attack, Ibori-Suenu appealed to her supporters and other APC members in the state to remain calm and avoid further violence.
She called on party faithful to resolve differences peacefully and work together for the unity and progress of the party.
Political leaders across Nigeria have repeatedly urged supporters to shun violence and allow democratic processes to take place without disruption.
Security agencies are yet to release an official statement on the incident. However, residents say the presence of armed men at a political event raises serious concerns about safety during party activities.
The incident in Ethiope-West adds to growing concerns about political violence in parts of the country. In the past, clashes during party primaries and congresses have led to injuries and, in some cases, loss of lives.
Civil society groups have called on political parties to improve internal conflict resolution mechanisms and ensure that security is provided during political gatherings.
For now, APC members in Delta State are expected to continue discussions aimed at resolving differences and completing the congress process peacefully.
As political activities increase across the country, stakeholders say there is a need for all actors to respect democratic principles and ensure that political competition does not turn violent.
The attack on a sitting lawmaker during a party congress highlights the urgent need for stronger security arrangements and better dialogue within political parties.
