The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called on the Federal government to urgently address issues concerning political violence, voter intimidation, and election conditions ahead of the 2027 general elections in Nigeria. The party emphasized the need for the APC-led administration to ensure Nigerians can exercise their political rights without fear of violence or intimidation. ADC's National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdulahi, made this statement at a world press conference in Abuja.
Abdulahi stated that every Nigerian has the right to support a political party of their choice and every registered party has the right to organize, hold meetings, and conduct lawful activities. The government has a responsibility to protect these rights, while the police must enforce the law without regard to political affiliation. He expressed concern over recent attacks on ADC members across the country, describing them as unacceptable.
Between July 2025 and September 2026, the ADC documented several incidents of attacks on opposition parties' political meetings, destruction of party properties, and assaults on participants. These incidents occurred in various states, including Kaduna, Kebbi, Ekiti, Cross River, Rivers, Edo, Osun, Kogi, and Enugu. The party is concerned about the frequency and nature of these activities and the response of law enforcement agencies.
One notable incident occurred in Edo state in February 2026, when the ADC Secretariat in Benin was attacked during a political gathering. Gunshots were also reported at the residence of former governor John Odige Oyegun, where political leaders had gathered. The Edo Police Command confirmed the attack, reported damage, and ordered an investigation. However, no arrests or prosecutions have been made since then.
The ADC has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Commander-in-Chief of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, to protect every citizen. The party wants the government to ensure that citizens can exercise their political rights without fear of violence or intimidation. This appeal comes as the situation of political violence against opposition party members has worsened.
The ADC emphasized that its demands are not extraordinary but rather ordinary requirements of constitutional government. The party believes that citizens should not have to struggle to obtain rights already guaranteed by the constitution, such as organizing and campaigning openly without fear for their lives.
The party will continue to push for a safe and conducive environment for the 2027 elections. The ADC and other stakeholders will monitor the situation closely, expecting the government and law enforcement agencies to take decisive action to prevent further incidents of political violence and ensure a free and fair electoral process.
Key points
- ADC urges FG to address political violence ahead of 2027 elections
- Party documents series of attacks on opposition parties between July 2025 and September 2026
- ADC appeals to President Tinubu to protect citizens from political violence
