Clergyman Sunday

I am profoundly saddened and deeply disturbed by reports of violence directed at members and coordinators of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) and the Obidient Movement in Delta State. I unequivocally condemn the attacks against our coordinators, supporters, and fellow citizens who were merely exercising their democratic rights. Political violence has no place in a democracy and can never be justified. No political aspiration is worth the life of a Nigerian, and no dispute should be resolved through intimidation, physical attacks, or the destruction of property. It is particularly troubling that, at a time when Nigeria urgently needs responsible leadership, some individuals continue to believe that political influence can be secured through thuggery, fear, and violence. Political authority should be attained through persuasion and the trust of the people, not by intimidating opponents. I urge the Government and the security agencies to conduct an immediate and thorough investigation into these attacks, identify those responsible, and ensure that they face justice, irrespective of their political affiliations. The safety and security of our members must be assured. We will not be intimidated or silenced, nor will we relinquish our democratic space to violence. Our response will remain peaceful, lawful, and determined. Nigeria belongs to every one of us. No political party or individual has exclusive ownership of the democratic space. Every Nigerian is entitled to organise, gather, express their views, and freely elect their leaders. Our nation needs constructive ideas rather than intimidation, responsible leadership rather than thuggery, and democratic contest rather than political violence. I stand in solidarity with everyone affected in Delta State. A New Nigeria must be founded on justice, liberty, peace, and respect for the dignity of every citizen. May God bless Delta State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria. -PO