At least four people sustained deep machete wounds, while several others were injured during a violent clash over the collation of delegate lists for the upcoming Tuomo community chairmanship election in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State.
The incident, which escalated due to rising tensions among supporters of various aspirants, resulted in violent confrontations.
One of the aspirants, Mr. Warebi Morentei Edonyabo, popularly known as Double-Lane, recounted the events, stating that the violence began when one of his supporters was attacked without provocation in front of his residence. “My supporters retaliated, causing the assailants to flee. In the process, they injured themselves and abandoned six machetes,” he claimed.
In response to the unrest, Mr. Edonyabo called on the government to deploy adequate security measures to prevent further violence and ensure a peaceful election.
Chief Ebikapaye Agidee, the Amanana-owei (traditional leader) of Tuomo community, urged all stakeholders to abide by the community’s constitution and maintain peace during the electoral process.
“Tuomo is a peace-loving community. I encourage all parties involved in the chairmanship election to follow due process, just as the people of Akerebunou Quarters did during the Amanana-owei election,” Chief Agidee stated.
He further warned against individuals pursuing selfish interests at the expense of the community’s harmony, emphasizing the need to prioritize collective well-being.
Meanwhile, Apostle Akebofa Freedom of the Merciful Church of Christ Ministry has appealed to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to intervene and prevent political interference in the community’s leadership selection.
“I urge the governor to call interested politicians to order. Tuomo has already elected and installed Chief Ebikapaye Agidee as Amanana-owei, and we are satisfied with his leadership,” the cleric stated.
He also cautioned against any attempts to impose an alternative leader on the community, stressing that Chief Agidee has been effectively fulfilling his responsibilities.
As the community prepares for the upcoming election, all eyes are on the government to take decisive action in ensuring a peaceful and transparent electoral process.
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