Friends of BAT have condemned the reported violent attack at a political rally organised by supporters of the NDC presidential candidate, Peter Obi, in Delta State on Saturday, November 7, 2026, which reportedly left one person dead and several others injured.
In a statement issued following the incident, the group described the development as disturbing and warned that political violence, intimidation, and lawlessness pose a threat to Nigeria’s democratic values.
Friends of BAT called on security agencies to immediately launch a comprehensive, transparent, and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack, insisting that everyone found culpable should be identified and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The group also urged investigators to examine the possible roles of individuals, organisations, and political actors whose statements or activities may have contributed to the violence.
It warned political leaders and their supporters against inflammatory rhetoric, threats, and politically motivated hostility, saying such conduct could undermine national unity and democratic participation.
The statement further called for stronger measures against individuals found to be financing, coordinating, or sponsoring political violence.
According to the group, efforts to address politically motivated violence should extend beyond the arrest of those directly involved to include individuals who may have financed or facilitated such criminal activities.
It also suggested that, where legally justified and supported by due process, relevant information about individuals linked to political violence could be shared through appropriate diplomatic and international channels for further scrutiny under applicable immigration, travel, and security regulations.
Reaffirming its commitment to peace, justice, and national stability, Friends of BAT urged political parties, candidates, supporters, and other stakeholders to embrace peaceful democratic engagement.
The group maintained that Nigeria’s democracy should be driven by ideas, persuasion, and the will of the electorate rather than fear, violence, or coercion.
It called for those responsible for the reported attack to be brought to justice and urged authorities to take decisive steps to prevent a recurrence.
