The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly condemned the burning of its party secretariat in Ubima, Rivers State, describing the incident as a criminal attack on democracy and a worrying escalation of political violence.
In a statement issued by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC described the arson as part of a disturbing pattern of intimidation against its members. He noted that just a few days ago, ADC supporters were shot at during a political gathering, and that other party offices across the country have faced attacks, harassment, and vandalism in recent months.
“This fire is not only an attack on the African Democratic Congress as a political party, it is also a direct assault on democracy, political tolerance, and the constitutional rights of Nigerians to freely associate and participate in the democratic process,” Abdullahi said.
The party emphasized that while it remains committed to peaceful democratic engagement, its restraint should not be mistaken for weakness. “Those who believe they can intimidate opposition parties through arson, violence, and criminal attacks should be reminded that those who choose violence should not assume others are incapable of defending themselves,” the statement read.
The ADC urged security agencies to immediately investigate the attack, identify and apprehend the perpetrators, and ensure that those who sponsor or enable political violence are brought to justice. The party warned that failure to act decisively would embolden actors who believe violence can silence political participation and weaken Nigeria’s democracy.
Affirming its resolve, the party stated “No amount of intimidation, arson, or destruction will weaken our commitment to building a democratic Nigeria founded on justice, fairness, and the rule of law.”
The ADC concluded by calling on all Nigerians to reject violence and defend the sanctity of democracy.
