Police seek information on Delta APC-NDC clash, clarify rifle recovery - Punch Newspapers
Delta State Police Command. Photo: Police
The Delta State Police Command has appealed for information that could assist its investigation into the clash between suspected supporters of the All Progressives Congress and the Nigeria Democratic Congress in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area of the state. The command also clarified reports surrounding the recovery of an AK-47 rifle during the incident, saying the weapon was not handed over to the police by anyone, but was found during a search of an old building near where officers rescued a man from a mob. The command made this known in a statement issued on Tuesday by its Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe. The statement followed reports on social media alleging the arrest of a suspect and the recovery of an AK-47 rifle during a political rally in Uvwie, as well as alleged efforts to secure the release of the suspect. The command said it received intelligence on September 15 about a planned rally and the likelihood of a clash between APC and NDC supporters. “All efforts to contact the organizers proved abortive until on 17th of September 2026, when the command received written notifications from both APC and NDC supporters ahead of the planned rally scheduled for 18th of September 2026 at Angle Park, Warri less than ten (10) hours to the date of the rally. “They were however advised not to use the place of convergence (angle park) for the rally, hence they went their separate ways,” the statement read. It added that at about 5am on September 18, the Commissioner of Police, CP Samuel Erale, ordered the deployment of policemen to the proposed venue to prevent a breakdown of law and order.See more Punch stories on Google.Add Punch on Google “During the rally, there was heightened tension and likelihood of a possible clash between supporters of both parties. This led to additional deployment of patrol teams on operation ”SHOW OF FORCE”, and the situation was subsequently brought under control. “At about 1130hours of the same date, Police Patrol teams on show of force noticed that a group of irate youths were mobbing an individual later identified as one Collins Egbara close to an old building at Orumarho community in Effurun town, Uvwie LGA. “The said Collins was beaten to stupor and the officers quickly rescued him from the mob. At the moment he was rescued till date, the police could not ascertain if he belongs to any political party as he has not been able to give statement. Morning recap: Wike draws fresh battle lines with APC governors, Trump TV goes live, FG seals deal for 12 US helicopters, other top stories 2027: Yayi promises continuity, unveils development plan 2027: APC, APGA disagree over Anambra ‘alliance’ “He was rescued in order to save his life and was rushed to the hospital for treatment. A quick search of the premises of said building led to the discovery of an AK-47 rifle.” The statement added that Collins is presently receiving treatment and is in stable condition. The command also denied reports that the rifle had been handed over to the police by some persons, saying its ownership, possession and recovery were subject to an ongoing investigation. “The investigation will be concluded as soon as the suspect is stable, if found wanting and connected to the gun, he will be charged to court. For now, the suspect is still under protective custody,” the command said. The police said the investigation would not be compromised, contrary to allegations circulating on social media. The Commissioner of Police also urged political parties, supporters and campaign organisers to notify the police ahead of rallies to enable adequate security arrangements. “Anyone with useful information that can aid the investigation can reach the command through the Police Public Relations Office on 09155570008, 09155570007,” the statement added. The latest development follows a September 19 report by The PUNCH that the Delta State Government had directed security agencies to investigate the clash between suspected APC and NDC supporters in Effurun. The state government had said the directive followed a violent confrontation during an NDC campaign march in the area on September 18, expressing concern over a video of the incident circulating online. The Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Charles Aniagwu, had said Governor Sheriff Oborevwori directed security agencies to investigate the incident and prosecute anyone found culpable. The government had also urged political parties and their supporters to conduct their campaigns peacefully. Saheed Oyelakin Saheed is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over two years of experience covering metro, technology, sports, politics, and human-interest stories. He focuses on producing clear, engaging reports across diverse beats. Saheed’s work reflects hands-on newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate and balanced journalism.
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