ADC Condemns Attack on Members in Kaduna, Warns Against Political Thuggery

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned the attack on its members in Kaduna State, warning political actors against introducing thuggery and violence into the 2027 electoral process.

The party described the incident as an unacceptable escalation at a time when political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections are beginning to gather momentum.

In a statement, the ADC National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, said the party would not mistake its commitment to peaceful democratic participation for weakness.

He warned that no political party or individual should assume a monopoly over violence, stressing that the consequences could become difficult to control once violence is allowed to become an instrument of political competition.

The party called on security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, identify those responsible and bring both perpetrators and anyone who sponsored or organised the attack to justice.

The ADC also expressed solidarity with its Kaduna State governorship candidate, Isa Ashiru, and other party members affected by the incident.

It urged the Kaduna State Government to ensure the safety of opposition parties and provide an environment where political organisations can freely conduct lawful activities ahead of the elections.

The party said Kaduna State belongs to its people and should not be treated as the property of any political organisation.

The ADC further warned that attempts to intimidate its members would not force it out of the political contest, insisting that it would continue to organise, campaign and compete across Kaduna State.

According to the party, the 2027 elections should be determined by competing ideas and the choices of voters at the ballot box rather than intimidation, violence or political thuggery.

The development comes as political parties across the country intensify preparations for the 2027 elections.

The ADC has recently presented governorship and deputy governorship candidates in 28 states as part of its preparations for the elections.

The party has also established mechanisms aimed at strengthening reconciliation and peaceful political engagement among its members and stakeholders.

The latest warning underscores growing concerns over the potential for political violence as election activities intensify.

The ADC urged political leaders and their supporters to embrace peaceful competition and allow Nigerians to freely exercise their democratic rights.