xOver four persons reportedly sustained deep machete wounds, while several others were injured during a clash over the collation of delegate lists for the upcoming Tuomo community chairmanship election in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State.
The incident occurred as tensions escalated among supporters of various aspirants, leading to violent confrontations.
Speaking on the incident, an aspirant, Mr. Warebi Morentei Edonyabo, also known as Double-Lane, narrated, “While lobbying for delegates, one of my supporters was attacked without provocation right in front of my house. My supporters retaliated, causing the assailants to flee, injuring themselves in the process and abandoning six machetes.”
He called on the government to deploy adequate security for the election, stressing the need to prevent further breaches of peace.
Chief Ebikapaye Agidee, the Amanana-owei of Tuomo community, urged all parties to adhere to the community’s constitution and maintain peace during the electoral process.
“Tuomo is a peace-loving community. I advise all stakeholders in the chairmanship election to play by the rules, just as the people of Akerebunou Quarters did during the Amanana-owei election,” Chief Agidee said.
He warned against selfish interests disrupting the community’s harmony, emphasizing that collective interests must prevai
Apostle Akebofa Freedom of the Merciful Church of Christ Ministry appealed to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to intervene and prevent political interference in the community’s leadership decisions.
“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 happy with his leadership,” the cleric said.
He warned against attempts to impose a different leader on the community, stressing that Chief Agidee has been effectively fulfilling his duties.
The community now awaits further government action to ensure a peaceful and transparent electoral process.
