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By Our Reporter (with reports from goldennationmultimedia.com)

Asaba – The Delta State Government has adopted a calculated stance of restraint regarding the recent political disturbance in Effurun, where the Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, was reportedly assaulted.

Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, speaking at a media briefing in Asaba on Thursday, stated that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has directed security agencies to investigate both the immediate and remote causes of the incident, including identifying all those responsible .

“The governor has directed security agencies to investigate both the immediate and remote causes of the incident and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice,” Aniagwu said. “It would be inappropriate for the government to reach conclusions before investigations are completed. We will allow the security agencies to conclude their work before making further comments” .

Political Violence or Isolated Incident? Government Dismisses Widespread Unrest Claims

The violence occurred during a Delta Central All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders’ meeting at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI) Conference Centre in Effurun on July 26 . The gathering, which brought together prominent APC leaders including Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo, Senator Ede Dafinone, and Governor Oborevwori’s senior political adviser Emmanuel Aguariavwodo, descended into chaos .

Aniagwu rejected attempts to link the disturbance to President Bola Tinubu or portray it as evidence of widespread political unrest in Delta State. He explained that the clash resulted from disagreements among political actors at the meeting and should not be misrepresented as a reflection of the state’s security situation .

Witness accounts suggested the violence erupted after Governor Oborevwori’s Senior Special Assistant on Protocol, Simon Mudi, became embroiled in a confrontation with other attendees. Some reports indicated that Mudi sustained serious injuries and was stabbed multiple times in the head, neck, and back .

Commissioner’s Denial and Counter-Allegations

Commissioner Izeze has denied any involvement in the violence, maintaining he was inside the conference hall when the clash erupted. He claimed video footage showed he was some distance from where the incident occurred .

In a letter, Izeze further alleged that he was assaulted during the incident and accused the Chairman of Uvwie Local Government Area, Tony Ofoni, of orchestrating actions against him. According to Izeze, some personal belongings, including a blue-strapped Guess leather wristwatch, ₦400,000 in cash, and prescription glasses, were taken during the incident .

Government Focuses on Economic Development Amid Disturbance

The press briefing, which initially centered on preparations for the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit scheduled from August 3 to 5, showcased the government’s broader agenda . Aniagwu highlighted the administration’s investment in infrastructure, healthcare, education, manpower development, and security over the past years .

The summit, themed “Harnessing Our Strengths, Unlocking Our Potential,” is expected to attract investors from Brazil, China, and other countries . Vice President Kashim Shettima will attend as Special Guest of Honour, while World Trade Organisation Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala will deliver the keynote address .

“We are not organising a fundraising event. We are organising an economic and investment summit to bring genuine investors into Delta State,” Aniagwu said. “Our focus is on long-term investments that will create jobs and stimulate economic growth” .

Aniagwu confirmed that one of Governor Oborevwori’s protocol officers sustained injuries during the disturbance but noted the government would refrain from further comment until security agencies complete their investigation .