ADC raises concerns over attacks on opposition supporters ahead of 2027

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has expressed alarm over incidents of political violence, voter intimidation, and attacks on opposition supporters in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections. During a press conference in Abuja, the party's National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, detailed documented cases of assaults on political meetings, destruction of party property, and threats against individuals based on their political preferences.

Abdullahi emphasized that every Nigerian has the right to back a political party of their choosing and that political parties and the government are responsible for safeguarding these rights. He underscored the role of law enforcement in upholding these rights regardless of political alignment.

Abdullahi highlighted a series of documented incidents from July 2025 to September 2026 across states such as Kaduna, Kebbi, Ekiti, Cross River, Rivers, Edo, Osun, Kogi, and Enugu. While he acknowledged that the circumstances varied and that responsibility has not been determined in all cases, he stressed the frequency of these events warranted serious scrutiny from authorities.

One notable incident involved an attack on the ADC's secretariat in Benin City, Edo State, in February, during which gunshots were reportedly heard at the residence of former Governor John Odigie-Oyegun. The Edo State Police Command confirmed the attack and initiated an investigation, with the ADC calling for transparency regarding its outcome.

Additionally, Abdullahi alleged the murder of ADC member Kamadioye in the weeks preceding the press conference, following an attack on party members in the Emilaghan community, Ward 1, Abua/Odual Local Government Area of Rivers State. Despite reporting the incident to the police, he claimed no action had been taken against the perpetrators.

The ADC also reported armed interference with an opposition gathering in Enugu and assaults on party members preparing for meetings in two Kogi State wards, resulting in several injuries. He insisted on rigorous investigations based on evidence rather than partisan rhetoric.

The ADC criticized statements attributed to public officials, including Borno State Commissioner Sainna Buba, Kuje Area Council Chairman Danjuma Shekwolo, and Osun State Senator Francis Fadahunsi, arguing that public office does not grant authority over political choices. Abdullahi urged the Inspector-General of Police and state police commissioners to provide updates on ongoing investigations into political violence and to outline preventive measures.

He referenced the Electoral Act 2026, which addresses security at political rallies, campaign conduct, and threats intended to coerce support or rejection of political entities.

The party pledged to continue documenting reported incidents and submitting evidence and petitions to relevant authorities, vowing to hold accountable those who employ human rights violations under the guise of state authority. Abdullahi concluded by calling for the Federal Government, security forces, political parties, and election observers to ensure citizens and political organizations can operate without intimidation prior to and during the 2027 elections.

The ADC emphasized its commitment to upholding the rights of all Nigerians equally, rejecting any notion of special treatment or privileged status for any political party.