The Delta State chapter of the Nigeria Democratic Congress has called for equal political space for all parties ahead of the 2027 elections, warning that alleged attempts to frustrate opposition activities could undermine public confidence in the democratic process.
The party also urged security agencies and relevant authorities to investigate reports of the destruction and removal of its campaign materials in some parts of the state.
The NDC State Chairman, Chief Hon. Angiamaowei Richman Oyindoubra, made the call on Thursday while addressing journalists in Asaba.
Oyindoubra alleged that the party’s billboards, banners and other campaign materials had been removed or destroyed in Bomadi and Isoko South Local Government Areas.
He specifically alleged that some NDC billboards were pulled down in Bomadi under the watch of the APC-led council chairman, Mr Dagidi Lawrence Adaye.
He also alleged that similar incidents occurred in Isoko South under the administration of the council chairman, Mr Warri Friday Voke.
The NDC chairman said political differences should not be allowed to restrict the activities of opposition parties or create tension in communities.
He argued that political parties should compete through their ideas, candidates and records rather than through intimidation or the use of political influence.
“If you are popular, campaign. If you are confident, persuade. If you believe you have performed, face the people,” Oyindoubra said.
According to him, the destruction or removal of campaign materials could heighten political tension, particularly as political activities increase ahead of the 2027 elections.
He said the NDC was not interested in turning political disagreements into confrontations between supporters of rival parties.
Oyindoubra therefore called on security agencies and government institutions to investigate the alleged incidents and ensure that all political parties were treated equally.
He said public institutions should remain neutral and serve the interests of citizens rather than those of individual political parties.
The NDC chairman also challenged the ruling All Progressives Congress to rely on its programmes and record in government to convince voters.
He said opposition parties should be defeated through the ballot box if voters were not convinced by their policies.
“If our candidates are weak, defeat them at the ballot box. If our ideas are bad, expose them before the electorate. That is democracy,” he said.
Oyindoubra said the NDC would continue to mobilise and engage residents peacefully while using lawful and constitutional means to defend its political rights.
He warned that sustained intimidation of opposition parties could discourage citizens from participating actively in elections and weaken confidence in democracy.
The chairman also urged residents not to abandon the electoral process because of political frustration, but to use voting and other lawful means of civic participation to express their preferences.
He stressed that the electorate, rather than political parties or government officials, should ultimately decide who governs.
Oyindoubra said the NDC would continue to pursue its activities peacefully and urged political actors across Delta State to allow competing parties and candidates to present their programmes directly to the people.
He called on the authorities to investigate the alleged destruction of the party’s campaign materials and create an environment where all political parties could campaign freely ahead of the 2027 elections.
