By Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, Esq.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has expressed concern over reported remarks attributed to Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, former Deputy President of the Senate and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate for Delta Central Senatorial District in the 2027 general elections, warning that inflammatory political rhetoric could threaten democratic values and public safety.
The controversy followed a campaign event in Uvwie, where Omo-Agege reportedly declared that anyone who manipulated the 2027 election would be killed, adding that there would be “no court this time.”
The APC described the reported statements as troubling, arguing that electoral malpractice must be addressed through lawful procedures rather than threats of violence or actions that could undermine the authority of the courts.
According to the party, the expressions “rig and die” and “no courts this time,” if intended literally, raise serious questions about respect for the rule of law, constitutional safeguards and the peaceful resolution of electoral disputes.
The party stressed that no political ambition should take precedence over human life, insisting that credible elections depend on lawful accountability, impartial institutions and the protection of citizens from intimidation.
APC Questions Omo-Agege’s Reported Remarks
The APC noted that the remarks were particularly concerning because of Omo-Agege’s background as a lawyer and former Deputy President of the Senate.
It argued that a legal practitioner and former occupant of a high national office should appreciate the importance of due process, judicial independence and the constitutional limits on individual authority.
The party questioned who would determine whether an election had been rigged, establish the identities of alleged offenders and decide their punishment if the judicial process were to be disregarded.
It maintained that electoral fraud is a serious offence that should be investigated and prosecuted under the law, but warned that threats of death are fundamentally different from a commitment to lawful accountability.
“Electoral fraud must be prevented, exposed and punished, but always within the law,” the APC position stated.
The party emphasised that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has statutory responsibilities for election administration, while security agencies investigate suspected offences and courts adjudicate disputes within their jurisdiction.
It urged candidates who suspect attempts to manipulate election results to document their evidence and report it to the appropriate authorities.
Calls for Impartial Investigation
The APC called on law-enforcement agencies to assess the reported statements, their context and the available evidence to determine whether further action is warranted under applicable laws.
It stressed that any investigation must be impartial and guided by evidence, warning against both political interference and the selective application of the law.
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According to the party, Omo-Agege’s political affiliation and former public office should neither shield him from legitimate scrutiny nor prejudice the outcome of any investigation.
The APC added that accountability must not become a tool for political persecution, insisting that the same standards should apply to every political party and candidate.
It also urged Omo-Agege to clarify the meaning of his reported “rig and die” and “no court this time” declarations.
The party said a clear explanation, coupled with an unequivocal commitment to peaceful campaigning and lawful dispute resolution, would help address public concerns surrounding the remarks.
Electoral Violence Could Put Ordinary Nigerians at Risk
The APC warned that inflammatory political language could heighten tensions as political parties prepare for the 2027 general elections.
It noted that ordinary voters, polling officials, party agents, security personnel, traders and young people are often among those exposed to the consequences of election-related violence.
According to the party, politicians may exchange accusations during campaigns, but the resulting violence can leave families and communities dealing with lasting injuries, losses and insecurity.
It maintained that no election is worth the life of any Nigerian.
The party also urged political leaders to encourage supporters to protect their votes peacefully and reject attempts to intimidate opponents or voters.
It called on traditional rulers, community leaders, youth organisations and civil society groups to promote peaceful political participation and discourage violence before, during and after the elections.
Delta Central Senate Race: APC, NDC Urged to Focus on Issues
Omo-Agege is seeking to represent Delta Central Senatorial District on the platform of the NDC, while Senator Ede Dafinone represents the APC in the contest.
The APC maintained that the contest should be decided by the electorate through a free, fair and credible electoral process.
It argued that candidates should demonstrate their suitability for public office through their records, policy proposals, engagement with constituents and plans for the district’s development.
The party identified infrastructure, employment, education, healthcare, security and economic opportunities as issues deserving greater attention during the campaign.
It warned that threats of violence and statements perceived as dismissing judicial remedies could distract from these concerns and undermine public confidence in the electoral process.
The APC further urged the NDC to clarify its position on threats of electoral violence and the rejection of lawful dispute-resolution mechanisms.
It maintained that every political party has a responsibility to discourage violence, protect voters and uphold the institutions established to safeguard democracy.
Delta Government Urges Political Restraint
The article also noted the Delta State Government’s reported call for political actors to exercise restraint and report suspected electoral malpractice to security agencies rather than resort to jungle justice.
The position underscores the importance of protecting lives, maintaining public order and ensuring that political competition does not degenerate into violence.
The APC called on INEC and security agencies to adopt appropriate preventive measures and respond impartially to credible allegations of electoral malpractice or threats.
It insisted that every eligible voter should be able to participate in the 2027 elections without fear, intimidation or coercion.
The party maintained that the defence of electoral integrity and respect for the law are inseparable, stressing that the ballot must be protected without exposing citizens to unlawful punishment.
APC Demands Commitment to Peaceful Elections
The APC urged Omo-Agege to publicly clarify his reported remarks and reaffirm his commitment to peaceful campaigning, judicial institutions and the lawful resolution of electoral disputes.
It said any allegation of electoral fraud should be supported by credible evidence and presented to the appropriate authorities for investigation and adjudication.
The party reiterated that no political party should encourage violence, intimidate voters or suggest that supporters have the authority to determine guilt and punishment outside the judicial process.
It also called on political stakeholders across Delta Central to promote issue-based campaigns and respect the constitutional rights of political opponents and voters.
The APC concluded that the reported remarks warrant serious public scrutiny and a clear explanation, while emphasising that any decision on possible legal consequences must be based on evidence and due process.
It maintained that Nigeria’s democracy cannot afford to normalise threats of extrajudicial violence, regardless of who makes them.
The party stressed that electoral disputes must be resolved through lawful institutions, not personal vengeance or force, adding that the future of Delta Central should be determined by the votes of its people.
The central message remains clear: the ballot must prevail over the bullet, evidence must prevail over suspicion, and the law must prevail over political anger.