Paul Osuyi, Asaba
The tussle over who becomes the next president general of Ewu community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State has claimed the life of one Geofrey Onogba.
The deceased, who was said to be a staunch supporter working assiduously for re-election of the incumbent President General, Ogaga Taiga, was reportedly stabbed during an attack by a rival group loyal to the incumbent’s opponent.
Onogba, who bled profusely as a result of the injury caused by the stabbing incident, died at the hospital where he was rushed to in futile attempt to revive him.
Community sources said trouble started when the incumbent suddenly indicated interest to retain his seat few days to the election, adding that the deceased Onogba took it upon himself to canvas support for Taiga
The development, according to the sources, unsettled the rival camp, leading to the attack on the eve of the community’s annual conference to herald the beginning of a new executive.
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Meanwhile, the police in the area have waded into the matter with a view to forestalling a reprisal.
A source at Ughelli Area Command, who confirmed the development, said the victim died at the hospital after medics battled unsuccessfully to revive him.
“There has been leadership tussle in the community, which had even led to litigation by aggrieved parties. But, the issue snowballed into violence with the attack on Onogba, which led to his death.
“Though no arrest has been made, investigation into the matter is still ongoing, as all parties involved in the fracas have been invited for questioning, and we are doing everything within the law towards ensuring that anyone found culpable is brought to justice,” the source said.