Police Confirm Disruption of ADC Secretariat Launch in Cross River State
The Nigeria Police Force has officially confirmed that the planned opening ceremony of a new secretariat belonging to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the Bakassi Local Government Area was disrupted following a significant disturbance at the venue. The event, which was scheduled to inaugurate the party's new office in the Bakassi area of Cross River State, had attracted numerous supporters and coalition members ahead of the official launch, creating an atmosphere of anticipation and political engagement.
Violent Disruption at Political Event
According to detailed reports, unidentified individuals stormed the venue shortly before the ceremony was set to begin, aggressively pulling down canopies, scattering chairs, and damaging parts of the sound system that had been prepared for the event. This sudden and violent disruption caused widespread panic among attendees, forcing organizers to immediately suspend the ceremony as people rushed to safety to avoid potential harm or escalation of the situation.
Police Response and Investigation
The Police Public Relations Officer in Cross River State, Sunday Eitokpah, stated that security operatives were quickly deployed to the scene in response to the disturbance. He confirmed that police officers and tactical response teams arrived promptly to restore order and prevent any further breakdown of law and order in the area. Eitokpah explained that the presence of security personnel was crucial in bringing the volatile situation under control, while authorities have already begun investigating those responsible for the disturbance.
He added that updates on the investigation would be provided as it progresses, emphasizing the police's commitment to ensuring public safety and holding perpetrators accountable. This incident highlights ongoing tensions in the political landscape as parties prepare for upcoming electoral processes.
ADC's Upcoming Political Activities
The disruption occurred ahead of the party's national convention scheduled for April 14, 2026. The ADC has also announced that its ward congresses will begin on April 7, followed by local government and state congresses as part of comprehensive preparations for the 2027 general elections in Nigeria. According to the party, these activities form an essential part of its constitutional process to renew leadership structures across all levels, from polling units and wards to local government and state levels, culminating in the national convention.
In a joint statement signed by the party's National Organising Secretary Prince Chinwdu Idigo and National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi, the party encouraged all members to actively participate in the process. The statement read: "Forms and further information are available via the official ADC website." It also urged members nationwide "to participate actively in the process and to conduct themselves in accordance with the constitution, guidelines, and democratic values of the African Democratic Congress."
This incident underscores the challenges faced by political parties in Nigeria as they mobilize for elections, with security concerns remaining a critical issue that requires vigilant attention from law enforcement agencies and party officials alike.
