The Traditional Council of Chiefs and Elders in Oghara Kingdom, Ethiope West Local Government Area of Delta State, has knocked the state chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for denying that there was violence during Saturday’s congress.
The Oguedion R’Ogharefe strongly condemned the violence that reportedly erupted during the APC Local Government Congress held on Saturday, February 21, 2026.
In a press statement issued on February 23, 2026, and signed on behalf of the Council by High Chief Stephen Egbivwie (Unugbrogodo), alongside four others, following an emergency meeting, the Council described the incident as “unfortunate” and expressed shock over reports that the congress, initially scheduled to hold at the township stadium in Ogharefe, was abruptly relocated to Ovade village only hours before commencement.
According to the Council, the sudden relocation allegedly led to chaos and a near-war situation, resulting in multiple injuries. Several affected individuals are reportedly receiving treatment at various hospitals.
Meanwhile, the APC in Delta State described the violence claims as false and a deliberate attempt to misrepresent what it called a peaceful and orderly exercise.
In a statement issued in Asaba, the state Publicity Secretary, Valentine Onojeghuo, said there were no incidents of violence anywhere in the state, including Ethiope West LGA.
However, the Council further expressed concern over allegations that some eligible party members were denied access to the congress venue, describing such actions as inconsistent with the spirit of political inclusiveness and the provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
The Council stated that it found no justification for moving the congress from the township stadium in Ogharefe, which has historically served as the venue for local government party congresses.
In its resolutions, the Council condemned in strong terms “the alleged brandishing of dangerous weapons and acts of violence that reportedly led to injuries.”
It also decried what it described as “the denial of entry and alleged harassment of legitimate party executives and members.” The Council warned against turning any part of Oghara Kingdom into what it termed a “political battleground.”
Youths across the Kingdom were cautioned against allowing themselves to be used as instruments of political violence or division. The Council also urged political elites and elders to remain vigilant against external influences that could destabilise the community for selfish political interests.
While condemning the incident, the Council expressed confidence in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), stating that it remains capable of conducting credible elections and congresses in the country.
The Council also acknowledged the developmental efforts of the Federal and Delta State Governments and conveyed confidence in the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to address intra-party disputes within the Kingdom with justice, fairness, and integrity.
Reiterating its non-political and socio-cultural mandate, the Council emphasised its commitment to peace, unity, and orderly political engagement in Oghara Kingdom.
It urged all parties involved in the dispute to pursue lawful and constructive channels in resolving grievances, stressing that meaningful development can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace and stability.