ADC Demands Probe into Political Violence Ahead of 2027 Elections

African Democratic Congress (ADC) has raised concerns over alleged attacks on opposition political parties, political intimidation and threats to citizens ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, made this known at a news conference on Monday in Abuja, where he presented documented incidents of alleged political violence against the party across some states.

Abdullahi said every Nigerian had the right to support a political party of choice, while registered political parties were entitled to organise meetings and conduct lawful activities without intimidation.

He said the government had a responsibility to protect those rights, while the police must enforce the law without regard to political affiliation.

He said the party’s memorandum examined incidents reported between July 2025 and September 2026 across Kaduna, Kebbi, Ekiti, Cross River, Rivers, Edo, Osun, Kogi and Enugu states.

According to him, the incidents included attacks on political meetings, destruction of party properties, assaults on political participants and threats against citizens over their political preferences.

Abdullahi cited the February attack on the ADC Secretariat in Benin, Edo, during a political gathering, as well as reported gunshots at the residence of former Edo governor and former APC National Chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun.

He said although the Edo Police Command confirmed the attack, reported damage at Oyegun’s residence and ordered an investigation, the party was yet to receive information on arrests, prosecution or the outcome of the probe.

“Since February, nothing has happened. No arrest, no prosecution and no report of what actually happened in the course of the investigation,” he said.

The ADC spokesman also alleged that party members were attacked in Rivers, while preparing for a political meeting, resulting in the death of a member.

Abdullahi further alleged that ADC members preparing for meetings in two wards in Kogi were attacked, leaving several people injured, The News Agency of Nigeria reports.

He called for investigations into the incidents, including allegations involving private individuals and public security personnel suspected of complicity or failure to prevent the attacks.

Abdullahi also expressed concern over alleged inflammatory statements by some members of the ruling party, saying such rhetoric could heighten political tension ahead of the elections.