The Nigeria Police Force has officially confirmed that thugs disrupted the planned opening of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) new secretariat in Bakassi Local Government Area of Cross River State, throwing the event into chaos.
The incident, which happened just before the ceremony was set to begin, left party supporters and coalition members scampering for safety as unidentified persons stormed the venue with destructive intent.
How the Attack Unfolded
Eyewitness accounts reveal that the attackers arrived at the new secretariat location in Bakassi and immediately began destroying properties set up for the launch ceremony. They pulled down canopies that had been erected for shade, scattered chairs arranged for guests, and damaged parts of the sound system meant to be used during the event.
The sudden invasion created panic among attendees who had gathered to witness the official opening of the party office. Organizers had no choice but to suspend the ceremony as people fled to safety.
Police Response and Investigation
Speaking on the incident, the Cross River State Police Public Relations Officer, Sunday Eitokpah, confirmed that security operatives responded swiftly to distress calls from the scene.
“Our officers and tactical response teams were quickly deployed to the location. They arrived promptly and were able to restore order and prevent further breakdown of law and order,” Eitokpah stated.
He assured the public that the police have launched investigations to identify and apprehend those responsible for the attack. According to him, updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
ADC Prepares for 2027 Elections
The disrupted secretariat launch comes as the ADC prepares for a series of important activities ahead of the 2027 general elections in Nigeria.
The party has scheduled its national convention for April 14, 2026, and has announced that ward congresses will commence on April 7. These will be followed by local government and state congresses as part of the party’s constitutional process to renew leadership structures.
In a joint statement signed by the party’s National Organising Secretary, Prince Chinwdu Idigo, and National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC explained that these activities are designed to strengthen party structures from polling units and wards up to local government, state, and national levels.
Party Calls for Peaceful Participation
Despite the setback in Cross River, the ADC leadership has called on members nationwide to participate actively in the upcoming congresses and convention.
“Forms and further information are available via the official ADC website,” the statement read, adding that members should “conduct themselves in accordance with the constitution, guidelines, and democratic values of the African Democratic Congress.”
The attack on the ADC secretariat highlights ongoing concerns about political violence in Nigeria, particularly as the country approaches another election cycle. Many Nigerians continue to call for stronger security measures and sanctions against those who sponsor political thuggery.
As investigations continue, all eyes will be on the Cross River State Police Command to see if those responsible for this brazen attack will be brought to book.
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