Violence Erupts in Cross River as Suspected Political Thugs Disrupt ADC Secretariat Opening in Bakassi!

Reported by Mustapha Labake Omowumi (Journalist) | Sele Media Africa

Political tensions escalated in Cross River State after suspected political thugs violently disrupted the inauguration of a secretariat belonging to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Bakassi Local Government Area, destroying property and scattering party supporters gathered for the event.

Eyewitness accounts indicate that the incident occurred during preparations for the formal opening ceremony of the party office, which was intended to strengthen the ADC’s grassroots presence in the coastal local government area. However, the gathering was abruptly halted when a group of unidentified individuals reportedly stormed the venue and began vandalizing equipment and party materials.

According to reports, the attackers destroyed chairs, public address systems, banners, and other logistical equipment prepared for the event. The sudden disruption caused panic among attendees, forcing supporters, party members, and organizers to flee the area for safety.

Local witnesses said the situation created a tense atmosphere in Bakassi, with residents expressing concern about the potential for escalating political violence as political activities intensify ahead of future electoral contests.

Party officials described the attack as a calculated attempt to intimidate members and undermine the democratic process in the state. A spokesperson for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) condemned the incident, stating that political violence threatens Nigeria’s democratic institutions and discourages citizen participation in governance.

“We strongly condemn the violent disruption of our secretariat opening. Political engagement must remain peaceful and democratic. No group should attempt to silence legitimate political activity through intimidation or violence,” the spokesperson said.

The disrupted event was expected to serve as a platform for mobilizing local supporters and presenting the party’s policy agenda to residents of Bakassi and surrounding communities. Political observers note that grassroots party structures such as local secretariats play a crucial role in strengthening political participation and building party networks at the community level.

Security authorities in Cross River State have yet to release a full statement detailing arrests or confirming the identities of those responsible for the attack. However, community leaders have urged law enforcement agencies to investigate the incident thoroughly and ensure that those involved are brought to justice.

Civil society groups and political analysts have also expressed concern that such incidents could undermine political stability and erode public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic system if left unaddressed.

Nigeria has made significant progress in democratic consolidation since the return to civilian rule in 1999, but sporadic incidents of political intimidation and electoral violence continue to challenge the country’s democratic development. Analysts argue that strengthening political tolerance, enforcing electoral laws, and ensuring the neutrality of security agencies remain essential to safeguarding democratic processes.

Cross River State, located in Nigeria’s South-South geopolitical zone, has historically experienced competitive party politics, particularly during periods leading up to elections. Political parties have increasingly intensified grassroots mobilization efforts across the state, which sometimes heightens rivalry among supporters.

For residents of Bakassi, a region that has historically faced economic and geopolitical challenges following the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling that ceded the peninsula to neighboring Cameroon in 2002, political stability and inclusive governance remain critical priorities.

Community stakeholders in the area have therefore called on political actors to prioritize peace and constructive engagement over confrontation.

Political observers say incidents like the disruption of the ADC secretariat opening highlight the need for stronger political dialogue, civic education, and enforcement of laws designed to protect democratic participation.

As investigations continue, party leaders and civil society organizations are urging authorities to ensure accountability while reaffirming the importance of peaceful political engagement across Nigeria.

The incident also serves as a reminder that safeguarding democratic institutions requires the collective responsibility of political parties, security agencies, and citizens alike.

Sources: Punch Newspaper, Vanguard Nigeria, The Guardian Nigeria, Channels Television, Leadership Newspaper

Mustapha Labake Omowumi

Mustapha Labake Omowumi is a journalist from Ibadan, Oyo State, and a graduate of the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) in Economics and Mathematics. He demonstrates a strong commitment to professional journalism, with a keen interest in writing and storytelling, guided by principles of self-discipline, accuracy, and trustworthiness.

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