A member representing Kaduna North Federal Constituency, Mohammed Bello El-Rufai, has condemned the reported attack on supporters of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, during a political procession in Asaba, Delta State.
The incident, which reportedly occurred on Saturday, November 7, left one person dead and five others injured.
El-Rufai, who is also the Chairman of the House Committee on Banking Regulations, described the attack as deeply concerning, stressing that political differences should never be used to justify violence, intimidation or destruction of property.
In a statement issued on Monday, the lawmaker said, “Political differences must never become a justification for violence, intimidation or the destruction of property.”
He emphasised that every Nigerian, regardless of political affiliation or opinion, has the constitutional right to freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly.
“Our democracy must be big enough to accommodate different political opinions and aspirations. No Nigerian should have to fear for their safety simply because of their political convictions,” he said.
The lawmaker called on the Delta State Government and relevant security agencies to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the incident, identify those responsible and ensure they are brought to justice.
He also urged political leaders and their supporters to exercise restraint and reject all forms of political thuggery.
Bello El-Rufai further called on Nigerians to collectively reject political violence and promote an atmosphere where political parties compete through ideas, policies and service to the people rather than intimidation.
He maintained that no political ambition was worth the life of any Nigerian, stressing the need to protect democracy and guarantee political freedom for all citizens.