Suspected APC Youths Violently Disrupt ADC Secretariat Opening in Bakassi
In a disturbing incident of political violence, youths suspected to be loyal to the All Progressives Congress (APC) stormed and disrupted an event organized by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Bakassi Local Council Area of Cross River State on Saturday. The gathering, which was for the opening of a new ADC secretariat, was forced to end abruptly as the assailants caused chaos and damaged property.
Chaos at the Venue: Canopies Scattered, Equipment Damaged
Witnesses reported that the ADC members had meticulously prepared for the ceremony, with canopies mounted, chairs and tables arranged, and loudspeakers set up. However, the event was thrown into disarray when a group of youths invaded the venue. A video circulating on social media captured the moment, showing the youths dispersing the crowd and vandalizing items intended for the event. Although the identities of those involved remain unverified, political remarks were heard during the disruption, hinting at a politically motivated attack.
ADC Candidate Condemns Incident, Calls for Justice
Reacting to the development, Effiong Nyong, the 2023 governorship candidate of the ADC in Cross River State, issued a statement describing the incident as unfortunate and politically motivated. He alleged that the disruption reflects how poverty has been weaponized in the state and urged authorities to investigate thoroughly. Nyong emphasized that the party will continue its civic education and political mobilization efforts while calling on opposition groups to collaborate. He also demanded that the state government ensure those responsible are identified and brought to justice.
Police Confirm Incident, Describe Perpetrators as Hoodlums
Confirming the incident, Eitokpah Sunday, spokesperson for the Cross River State Police Command, labeled those involved as hoodlums. He detailed that the group arrived unexpectedly, scattering canopies, chairs, and sound equipment. Police officers and tactical teams were promptly deployed to restore order and prevent escalation. Sunday noted that the situation has been brought under control to avoid a full-blown crisis, although no arrests had been made at the time of reporting. He highlighted the security presence in the area to maintain calm, given the locality's sensitive nature.
Pattern of Alleged Interference with ADC Activities
This attack appears to follow a pattern of alleged interference with ADC activities in Cross River State. For instance, on March 10, 2026, security operatives reportedly sealed a venue in Calabar scheduled for the inauguration of the party's Membership Mobilisation, Registration and Revalidation Committee. Earlier, a similar disruption occurred in Ogoja Local Council Area during a reception for defecting members. These incidents suggest a troubling trend of political intimidation targeting the ADC.
Unresponsiveness from APC and Local Officials
Attempts to reach Christopher Etta, the newly elected chairman of the APC in Cross River State, for comments were unsuccessful, as calls and messages went unanswered. Meanwhile, Effiong Etim Okon, Chairman of the Bakassi Local Council Area, claimed unawareness of any ADC activity in the area, adding a layer of complexity to the incident. The lack of response from APC officials and the local chairman's denial raise questions about accountability and transparency in addressing such political disruptions.
This incident underscores the volatile political climate in Cross River State, where party events are increasingly marred by violence and intimidation. As investigations continue, there is a pressing need for enhanced security measures and political dialogue to prevent further escalations and protect democratic processes.
