adminreporter
Tension gripped the Ovade community in Oghara, Ethiope West Local Government Area of Delta State on Saturday after gunmen stormed a local government congress of the All Progressives Congress (APC), sending delegates and supporters fleeing for safety.
Among those caught in the chaos was Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu, who represents the Ethiope Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.
The lawmaker was hurriedly evacuated from the venue under heavy security following what her aides described as a targeted assassination attempt.
Ibori-Suenu, daughter of former Delta State governor James Ibori, had just arrived at the congress venue when armed men reportedly opened fire and blocked access to the field where the exercise was scheduled to take place.
Eyewitnesses recounted scenes of panic as gunshots rang out across the area. Delegates scrambled for cover, while party supporters ran in different directions to escape the unfolding violence.
Although some attendees were said to have sustained injuries in the stampede and ensuing confusion, the exact number of casualties had not been officially confirmed as of press time.
Members of the lawmaker’s entourage claimed the attackers appeared intent on preventing her from entering the venue. Security operatives attached to Ibori-Suenu swiftly formed a protective cordon around her and escorted her away from the scene.
Reports indicate that some security personnel may have been injured while repelling the assault.
An aide to the federal lawmaker alleged that the attack was deliberate, suggesting that certain powerful interests were displeased with the ongoing congressional process.
However, no evidence has been publicly presented to substantiate the claim, and authorities have yet to announce any arrests.
Despite the incident, Ibori-Suenu reportedly urged her supporters to remain calm and refrain from retaliation, emphasising the need to allow security agencies to handle the situation.
As investigations are expected to commence, pressure is mounting on law enforcement authorities to identify those responsible and restore confidence in the safety of the APC’s congress activities in the area.
The incident involved Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu, daughter of James Ibori, during an All Progressives Congress congress in Ovade, Oghara, Ethiope West Local Government Area, Delta State. She represents the Ethiope Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.
