The Delta State Government has strongly condemned the violent incident that occurred in Effurun on Sunday, describing it as unfortunate, reprehensible and completely at variance with the prevailing atmosphere of peace and security being fostered across the state by the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.
In a statement issued in Asaba, the State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, said the government was deeply disturbed by videos of the incident circulating on social media and other online platforms, particularly the disturbing attack on Mr. Simon Mudi.
Aniagwu said the Governor Sheriff Oborevwori administration places the highest premium on the protection of lives and property, stressing that peace, security and social harmony remain fundamental pillars of the MORE Agenda. He noted that the government has continued to invest significantly in strengthening security architecture across the state because sustainable development can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace.
“The reported acts of violence witnessed in Effurun, especially the brutal attack on Mr. Simon Mudi, are totally unacceptable and have no place in a civilised and law-abiding society. Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has consistently made it clear that his administration does not condone violence in any form, irrespective of the persons or interests involved.
“The Governor remains committed to ensuring that every resident of Delta State lives and conducts lawful activities in an environment that is peaceful, safe and secure. No individual or group will be allowed to take the law into their own hands or undermine the peace that the people of Delta State have worked collectively to build.”
According to the Commissioner, the state government has directed security agencies to immediately identify, arrest and prosecute all those connected with the incident, assuring that anyone found culpable would face the full weight of the law without fear or favour.
He appealed to residents to remain calm and avoid actions or statements capable of escalating tensions, urging all parties connected with the incident to embrace lawful and peaceful means of resolving disagreements.
Aniagwu emphasized that the Oborevwori administration remains resolute in its commitment to enhanced peace and security throughout Delta State and will continue to support security agencies in safeguarding lives and property while ensuring that justice is served.
He further called on community leaders, youth groups, stakeholders and the general public to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information that would aid ongoing investigations, stressing that collective vigilance and mutual respect are essential to sustaining peace across the state.
The Commissioner assured Deltans that the government would continue to uphold the rule of law, protect the rights of all citizens and promote dialogue, reconciliation and peaceful coexistence among communities, reiterating that violence, intimidation and criminality have no place in the Delta State envisioned by the Governor Sheriff Oborevwori administration.
