The African Democratic Congress has expressed concerns over the increasing incidents of political violence, attacks on opposition members, and alleged voter intimidation ahead of the 2027 general elections. The party's National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, raised the alarm at a press conference, accusing the authorities of failing to adequately investigate and prosecute perpetrators of attacks on opposition political activities across several states.
Recent incidents of political violence have been reported in various states, including Osun, Borno, and the Federal Capital Territory. Senator Francis Fadahunsi was reported to have urged supporters of the All Progressives Congress to “kill” members of the rival Accord Party. Similarly, the Borno State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sainna Buba, sparked controversy after reportedly threatening to cut off the fingers of individuals who refused to support the ruling APC.
The ADC has documented cases of attacks on political meetings, injuries, destruction of property, and the killing of a party member in Rivers, Enugu, Kogi, and Edo states. The party cited a recent attack on its secretariat in Benin, Edo State, during a political gathering, as well as reported gunshots at the residence of former governor and ex-APC National Chairman, Chief John Odigie Oyegun.
The ADC National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, urged the Inspector General of Police to publicly account for the status of investigations into the incidents. He stated that every Nigerian has the right to support a political party of their choice and every registered political party has the right to organise, hold meetings, and conduct its lawful activities.
Abdullahi said the Nigerian police is not APC police; it is the police of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. He added that citizens should not have to struggle to obtain the rights that the constitution already guaranteed them, which is the right to organise themselves and the right to campaign openly and without fear for their lives.
The ADC has called for thorough investigations into the attacks, including allegations involving private individuals and security personnel. The party rejected political violence and would continue to uphold non-violence. Abdullahi stressed that the repeated violence demanded a stronger government response to prevent future recurrence.
The party's concerns come as the 2027 general elections approach, and it remains to be seen how the authorities will respond to the allegations of political violence and intimidation.
Key points
- The African Democratic Congress has documented cases of attacks on political meetings, injuries, destruction of property, and the killing of a party member in various states.
- The party has urged the Inspector General of Police to publicly account for the status of investigations into the incidents.
- The ADC has rejected political violence and pledged to uphold non-violence in the run-up to the 2027 general elections.
