The governorship candidate of Delta PDP, Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, narrowly escaped an assassination attempt on Sunday night while returning from Sapele to Osubi. According to his Chief Press Secretary, unknown gunmen ambushed and opened fire on his convoy along the Warri/Sapele Highway, riddling his car and backup vehicles with bullets.
Fortunately, he survived due to his bulletproof car and the bravery of his security detail who engaged the attackers in a 10-minute duel. One of his security men sustained injuries, and the incident has been reported to the police for further investigation.
This is the second attempt on Oborevwori's life, with the first occurring on January 11th when assassins disguised as police officers opened gunfire on his convoy along the same highway. He was on his way to Koko, Warri North Local Government Area of the State for the commissioning of the ultra-modern floating market, Ogheye.
Oborevwori is also the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly and a leading governorship hopeful in the state. His Chief Press Secretary called on the security agencies to investigate and bring the culprits to book, stating that violence has no place in politics.
The incident has caused widespread condemnation from political leaders and groups in the state, with many calling for increased security measures to protect political candidates and ensure a peaceful election.
The Delta State Police Command has confirmed the incident and stated that investigations are ongoing to unravel those behind the attack. The Commissioner of Police, Muhammed Ali, assured the public that the police will do everything within their power to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Meanwhile, Oborevwori has urged his supporters to remain calm and law-abiding, stating that the attack will not deter him from his campaign to bring positive change to the state. He thanked God for sparing his life and praised the bravery of his security detail.
The attack on Oborevwori is not an isolated incident, as there have been reports of violence and intimidation during election campaigns across the country. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has repeatedly called on political parties and candidates to adhere to the rules and guidelines of the electoral process and shun violence.