The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly condemned a recent violent attack. This incident targeted the National Secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The party described it as a “disturbing and dangerous assault on democracy.” ADC issued its statement on Tuesday. Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, signed the release. The ADC accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration of weaponizing violence. They claim this is to control other political parties. The ADC warned about the implications of this attack. It views the incident as a direct threat to Nigeria’s multiparty system. They also see it as an increasing move by the ruling party to establish a one-party state.

A Direct Assault on Nigeria’s Democracy

“The African Democratic Congress (ADC) strongly condemns the brazen invasion,” the statement read. It highlighted the “violent takeover of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Secretariat in Abuja.” This event occurred on Tuesday, November 14, 2023. ADC attributed the action to “agents of the APC Federal Government.” “This incident is, without doubt, a dangerous assault on Nigeria’s democracy,” the ADC affirmed. They stressed that everyone must condemn it, “regardless of party affiliation.” The ADC stated that the current government’s anti-democratic credentials are evident. They pointed to “various actions and machinations since coming to power.” However, this latest incident marks “a new and dangerous low,” even compared to previous worrying standards. This is according to the ADC’s view of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration. “With this action, the government sends a chilling message,” the statement continued. It suggests the government would “employ any means, including acts of terror,” to further partisan political interests. The ADC questioned: “If the government could send armed agents to enforce factional control of an opposition headquarters, what stops it from doing the same to labour unions, press organisations, student movements, or peaceful protest groups?” “Therefore, let no one make the mistake of thinking this is solely a PDP matter,” the ADC urged. They emphasized that “this attack affects the future of democracy in Nigeria.” It also “sets a dangerous background for the 2027 general elections.”

Call for Investigation and Upholding Democratic Norms

The ADC views this invasion as another episode. It is “a more sinister one,” in the ruling party’s “insidious efforts.” These efforts aim to “destabilise opposition parties.” They also seek to “undermine Nigeria’s future as a multiparty democracy.” “We therefore call on all Nigerians,” the ADC declared. They also appealed to “Nigeria’s international partners” to acknowledge “this dangerous situation.” They urged engagement with the Nigerian government. This engagement should focus on “upholding democratic norms.” It must also address “respect for civil liberties.” The aim is to “prevent further descent into authoritarian behaviour.” Furthermore, the party demands an independent investigation. This probe should examine “the role of the Nigerian Police and other security forces.” It seeks to clarify their involvement in “this disgraceful action.” The ADC also called on President Bola Tinubu. They asked him to “rein in his political operatives” before they “send the country into chaos.”