ADC Alleges Political Intimidation in Rivers

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Rivers State has accused authorities of creating an unfavourable political environment for opposition parties following a directive that restricts public gatherings in Ikwerre Local Government Area.

The party said the order, issued by the Chairman of Ikwerre Local Government, Charles Wobodo, which requires individuals and groups to obtain his written approval before holding any gathering, has raised concerns about the state of democracy in the area.

In a statement released on Monday by the Rivers State Publicity Secretary, Barrister Chizy Enyi, the ADC acknowledged the security challenges affecting parts of Ikwerre, including recent incidents of killings, kidnappings and attacks on residents. The party said it sympathised with families who had lost loved ones and supported lawful measures aimed at restoring peace and protecting lives.

However, the ADC argued that efforts to tackle insecurity should not result in restrictions on the constitutional rights of citizens or be used to limit legitimate political activities.

The party maintained that the directive raises constitutional issues because the rights to peaceful assembly, freedom of association and political participation are protected by the Nigerian Constitution. It argued that such rights should not depend on the personal approval of any local government chairman.

According to the ADC, the latest directive follows months of what it described as intimidation, threats and disruption of its lawful political meetings in Ikwerre Local Government Area. The party said the situation has created the impression that restrictions on political activities are gradually being normalised under the cover of security concerns.

The opposition party also expressed fears that if the directive is allowed to remain in force, similar measures could be introduced in other local government areas across Rivers State as preparations gather pace for the 2027 general elections.

The ADC insisted that maintaining security should focus on identifying, arresting and prosecuting criminal elements rather than imposing broad restrictions that affect law-abiding citizens and political organisations.

The party called on the Ikwerre Local Government Chairman to withdraw the directive, describing it as inconsistent with constitutional provisions.

It also appealed to the Rivers State Commissioner of Police and other security agencies to ensure that all registered political parties receive equal protection under the law and are allowed to carry out lawful political activities without interference.

The ADC further urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), civil society organisations and other democratic stakeholders to closely monitor developments in Rivers State that could affect free political participation ahead of future elections.

The party said it remains committed to peaceful, issue-driven and lawful political engagement. It added that it would continue to exercise its constitutional rights through legal means while opposing any attempt to silence or intimidate opposition parties. According to the ADC, protecting public safety and safeguarding democracy should go hand in hand.