Gunfire at an All Progressives Congress local government congress in Ovade, Oghara, Ethiope West Local Government Area of Delta State on Thursday has reignited concerns about public safety around political activities, after armed men stormed the venue and forced a federal lawmaker to flee under protection.

The incident occurred as Rt. Hon. Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu, who represents Ethiope Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, arrived for the party exercise. Witnesses and aides say access to the venue was blocked before shots were fired, triggering panic among delegates and supporters.

Eyewitness accounts described a sudden breakdown of order as gunshots rang out shortly after her arrival, sending people running for cover. Several attendees were reportedly injured in the scramble, underscoring the risks civilians face when violence erupts at crowded political gatherings.

Security operatives attached to the lawmaker moved quickly, forming a protective cordon and evacuating her from the scene. According to officials familiar with the operation, some members of the security team sustained injuries while ensuring her safe exit.

Supporters and party members at the venue were not spared. Those injured were said to have received emergency care at nearby facilities, although authorities had yet to release an official casualty figure as investigations continued.

The attack disrupted the scheduled congress of the All Progressives Congress, raising questions about preparedness and the adequacy of security planning for intra-party events, particularly in areas with a history of political tension.

While aides to the lawmaker described the incident as a deliberate attempt to stop her from accessing the venue, security authorities had not announced any arrests or confirmed a motive as of the time of reporting. Officials say inquiries are ongoing to establish how the attackers gained access and why the security perimeter was breached.

In the aftermath, the lawmaker was reported to have urged calm among her supporters, as party leaders and security agencies face growing pressure to restore confidence and ensure that political processes in Delta State can proceed without fear or violence.