The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned the arson attack on its Ekiti secretariat, demanding justice and an independent investigation.
A statement by its national publicity secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, on Tuesday in Abuja, said the attack occurred hours before the party’s reconfiguration and affirmation ceremony in the state.
Mr Abdullahi described the attack as a deliberate effort to sabotage its activities and intimidate members ahead of the ceremony.
He explained that unknown persons set the building ablaze early morning on October 20.
The party described the incident as criminal and anti-democratic, adding that the attack was meant to instill fear and undermine free political association ahead of Ekiti’s governorship election.
He said the building was set to host a vital ceremony for reaffirming leadership at the ward, local government, senatorial, and state levels.
Mr Abdullahi decried the “rising wave of attacks” on members and facilities across Nigeria.
“Since July, when ADC was adopted by the opposition coalition, violence against its structures has reportedly increased, suggesting a clear, disturbing pattern of coordinated intimidation.
“In Kaduna, ADC leaders were attacked during an inauguration on August 30. In Lagos, party officials were assaulted in Alimosho during a mobilisation exercise.
“Kebbi saw similar violence, where the convoy of ADC leaders was attacked in Birnin Kebbi. In Kogi, the secretariat in Dekina was targeted by vandals.
“In Edo, threats have reportedly come directly from the state government. These incidents are collectively alarming, pointing to systemic hostility toward the party nationwide,” Mr Abdullahi said.
The ADC insisted that the attacks were a threat to Nigeria’s democracy and the constitutional rights of all citizens to participate freely in politics.
Mr Abdullahi called on security agencies to investigate all attacks and swiftly prosecute those responsible.
The party also urged INEC, international observers, and civil society to pay close attention to the quiet war being waged against the party.
Mr Abdullahi confirmed that, “In spite of the arson, the Ekiti affirmation ceremony would go on in a hall or under a tree.”
(NAN)