The African Democratic Congress has condemned an attack on its members in Kaduna State, warning that the introduction of political thuggery could threaten the credibility of the 2027 electoral process.
The party made its position known in a statement issued on Thursday by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, following an incident involving ADC supporters during a solidarity walk for the party’s Kaduna governorship candidate, Isa Ashiru.
The supporters were attacked by suspected thugs during the procession in the Kaduna State capital on Wednesday, sparking concerns over the safety of opposition activities as preparations for the 2027 elections intensify.
The ADC described the incident as an unacceptable development, particularly at a time when political activities surrounding the elections were only beginning.
The party called on security agencies to investigate the incident, identify those responsible and ensure that they face prosecution.
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The ADC stated, “The African Democratic Congress has condemned the attack on its members in Kaduna State, warning that no individual, group or political party has a monopoly on non-state sanctioned violence, and that those introducing thuggery into the 2027 political process are playing a dangerous game.
Let nobody mistake our commitment to peaceful democratic participation for weakness. No political party has a monopoly on non-state sanctioned violence. Once violence becomes an accepted instrument of political competition, nobody can predict where it ends.
“This is why the security agencies must act now. Those responsible for the attack, as well as anyone who sponsored or organised it, must be identified, arrested and prosecuted.”
The opposition party also expressed support for Ashiru and other members affected by the incident, while asking the Kaduna State Government to take steps to protect opposition parties operating in the state.
It continued, “Kaduna belongs to its people, not to any party. If anyone believes intimidation will frighten the ADC off the political field, they have badly miscalculated.
“We will not be intimidated. We will organise, we will campaign, and we will compete in every part of Kaduna State. The 2027 elections must be decided by ideas competing at the ballot box, not by thugs and bruises.”