Deacon Chris Iyovwaye, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) governorship candidate for Delta State in the 2027 general elections, has strongly condemned the sealing of the business premises of Ambassador Tobore Alex Agbah by the Chairman of Ughelli North Local Government Area, Olorogun Jaro Egbo. Iyovwaye described the council chairman's action as "unlawful, vindictive, and cowardly," asserting that the move was a direct reprisal for political opposition. The incident occurred after a massive 10,000-man peaceful march organized by Amb Agbah in Ughelli under the banner of the NDC.
The clampdown on the property follows a recent event where Amb Agbah mobilized youths for a peaceful march protesting the current administration's economic policies. Iyovwaye and the NDC camp have dismissed the claims by the Ughelli North Local Government Chairman, Jaro Egbo, that the action was due to safety, environmental infractions, and unfulfilled advertising fee payments regarding a branded vehicle. Amb. Agbah has vehemently denied any violations, maintaining that his property was targeted purely because of his active role in mobilizing youths for the recent opposition march.
Iyovwaye questioned the sudden urgency of the council's enforcement, stating that if there was a planning issue, there is a process that should have been followed, including serving notice, giving time, and going to court. He emphasized that the action was politically motivated and not about planning or any genuine infractions. The NDC flagbearer also challenged Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, to prove his commitment to democratic values and the rule of law.
Iyovwaye warned that silence from the state government house in Asaba would translate to tacit approval of local government intimidation against opposition voices. He cautioned the governor, stating that if he keeps quiet on this issue, then every Deltan will know that this was sanctioned from Asaba. The incident has sparked concerns about the state of democracy and the rule of law in Delta State.
The NDC governorship candidate called on the Delta State Commissioner of Police and relevant security agencies to guarantee the safety of opposition members across Ughelli North and the wider state. He urged supporters to remain peaceful but resolute, stating that the incident has only further energized the movement to "RESET" Delta State come 2027.
Iyovwaye maintained that the determination of the people, especially the 10,000 youths who participated in the recent march, cannot be sealed. He declared that "the RESET is here, and it cannot be sealed." The incident has highlighted the tensions between the NDC and the current administration in Delta State.
The sealing of Amb Agbah's business premises has sparked widespread condemnation, with many calling for the state government to take action to protect the rights of opposition members. The incident has also raised concerns about the use of state power to silence political opponents.
Key points
- Deacon Chris Iyovwaye condemns the sealing of Ambassador Tobore Alex Agbah's business premises as unlawful and vindictive.
- The incident is seen as a reprisal for political opposition and a test of the state government's commitment to democratic values.
- Iyovwaye challenges Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to prove his commitment to the rule of law and protect the rights of opposition members.
