ADC Warns Political Violence Threatens 2027 Nigerian Polls

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has issued a stark warning that rising levels of political violence and intimidation could severely compromise the integrity of Nigeria’s upcoming 2027 general elections. According to the party, a pattern of attacks on opposition gatherings and property has emerged over the past year, raising concerns about the safety of political actors in the lead-up to the vote.

Bolaji Abdullahi, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, presented these concerns at a press conference held at the ADC’s national secretariat in Abuja on Monday. He urged the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, to provide public accountability for investigations into numerous reported incidents, arguing that the current security environment fails to guarantee the fundamental right of opposition parties to organize and campaign freely.

Documented Incidents Across Multiple States

The ADC states it has compiled a record of incidents occurring between July 2025 and September 2026, detailing assaults, threats, and the destruction of party assets. Abdullahi specifically cited Kaduna, Kebbi, Ekiti, Cross River, Rivers, Edo, Osun, Kogi, and Enugu as locations where opposition members were targeted. While the party acknowledges that responsibility for these attacks has not been conclusively established in every case, it emphasizes that the frequency of such events and the subsequent response from security agencies are deeply concerning.

Particularly alarming to the party is the alleged lack of progress in specific high-profile cases. Abdullahi referenced the February attack on the ADC secretariat in Benin City and reported gunshots at the residence of party chieftain Chief John Odigie-Oyegun. Although the Edo State Police Command confirmed these incidents and promised investigations, the ADC reports that months later, there have been no arrests, prosecutions, or public reports on the outcomes of these probes.

Calls for Police Accountability

Abdullahi challenged the Inspector-General of Police to publicly account for the status of investigations into these alleged acts of violence. He emphasized that the Nigerian Police Force serves the Federal Republic and must protect all citizens, regardless of political affiliation. The party spokesman argued that all political entities have the right to conduct lawful activities without fear of intimidation or physical harm from either private individuals or public security personnel.

The ADC further alleged that some politicians from the ruling party have made inflammatory statements that may have contributed to the hostile environment. According to the party, authorities have failed to investigate or prosecute those who made such remarks, despite repeated assurances of a level playing field. Abdullahi stressed that electoral credibility is not determined solely on election day but also by the extent to which opposition parties can mobilize, advertise, and campaign freely in the months preceding the poll.

Legal Remedies and Evidence Collection

In response to these challenges, the ADC stated it is maintaining a central record of reported incidents, including dates, locations, witness accounts, and multimedia evidence. The party plans to petition relevant authorities and pursue judicial remedies where necessary to address the alleged failures in security and justice. This approach reflects a broader strategy to document and challenge the political environment that the ADC believes is undermining democratic participation.

The Whistler Newspaper reports that the ADC’s warnings highlight significant tensions in Nigeria’s political landscape. As the 2027 elections approach, the party’s focus on accountability and legal recourse underscores the ongoing debate over the fairness and safety of the electoral process. Observers will be watching closely to see if security agencies respond to these calls for transparency and action.