The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has expressed concerns over alleged increasing political violence against opposition parties in Nigeria, ahead of the 2027 general elections. The party demands that the Nigeria Police Force provide updates on investigations into attacks on its members and political meetings nationwide. This was stated by the ADC National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, at a press conference in Abuja.
According to Abdullahi, the party documented several incidents of political violence between July 2025 and September 2026. These incidents include attacks on political meetings, destruction of party property, assault on political participants, and threats against citizens based on their political preferences. The affected states are Kaduna, Kebbi, Ekiti, Cross River, Rivers, Edo, Osun, Kogi, and Enugu.
The ADC party listed several incidents of political violence, including an attack on its secretariat in Benin City, Edo State, in February. There were also reported gunshots at the residence of former Edo State governor, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, where political leaders had gathered. The Edo State Police Command confirmed both incidents and announced investigations, but the ADC claims it has not received updates on arrests, prosecution, or the outcome of the investigations.
The ADC also reported other incidents, such as the killing of one of its members, Kamadiyoi, during an attack on members preparing for a political meeting in Rivers State. The party alleged that despite reporting the incident to the police, no action has been taken to bring the perpetrators to justice. Furthermore, armed men disrupted an opposition political gathering in Enugu, resulting in injuries, while attacks on ADC members in Kogi State left several members injured.
Abdullahi emphasized that every Nigerian has the constitutional right to support a political party of their choice and that registered political parties are entitled to organize meetings and conduct lawful activities without intimidation. He stated that the Nigerian Police Force is not the police of any particular party but of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, stressing the need for the police to take responsibility for maintaining order.
The ADC spokesman called for thorough investigations into the reported incidents, including allegations involving private individuals and security personnel. He expressed concern over what he described as inflammatory comments attributed to some members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Abdullahi stressed that repeated violence against lawful political activity demands a serious government response.
The ADC party's concerns come as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections. The party's demand for police action and accountability highlights the need for a safe and fair electoral process. The Nigeria Police Force has been urged to take concrete steps to address the issue of political violence and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice.
Key points
- ADC reports several incidents of political violence across Nigeria ahead of 2027 elections
- Party demands police action and accountability for attacks on its members and meetings
- Concerns raised over inflammatory comments by some APC members and lack of government response
