ADC Aspirants Condemn Violent Disruption of LP/ADC Event in Lagos

By Micheal Chukwuebuka

National and State Assembly aspirants of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) have condemned what they described as a barbaric and criminal attack on a joint political event organised by the Labour Party (LP) and the ADC in Lagos on Friday, 31 January 2026.

In a statement issued on the same day, the body, which represents contestants under a coalition for the 2027 general elections, alleged that more than 100 armed hoodlums invaded the venue of the event, assaulting participants and leaving several people injured. The aspirants described the incident as irresponsible, cowardly and a direct threat to Nigeria’s democratic process.

According to the statement, the attack constituted an assault on democracy, freedom of association and the constitutional right of Nigerians to participate peacefully in political activities of their choice. The group warned that it was unacceptable for citizens and political actors to be subjected to violence simply for organising or attending a lawful gathering in a democratic society.

The ADC aspirants expressed deep concern over what they termed the growing normalisation of political thuggery, intimidation and lawlessness, noting that the use of violence to silence opposition voices erodes public trust, undermines national stability and pushes the country closer to authoritarianism.

They also questioned the apparent failure of security arrangements at the event, insisting that the Nigerian state has a responsibility to protect all citizens irrespective of political affiliation. The group said any failure to do so represents a betrayal of the democratic ideals Nigerians continue to strive for.

In response to the incident, the aspirants called for an immediate and thorough investigation by the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security agencies to identify, arrest and prosecute those responsible, including their alleged sponsors. They further demanded clear assurances from the Lagos State Government regarding the safety of political actors and citizens at all lawful gatherings.

The statement also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to take proactive steps to prevent further political violence as the country moves towards future elections.

Beyond institutional action, the ADC aspirants challenged political leaders across party lines to publicly denounce violence and caution their supporters against acts capable of destabilising the nation. They warned that silence in the face of such brutality amounts to complicity rather than neutrality.

Reaffirming their position, the body pledged unwavering commitment to peaceful political engagement, democratic values and people-oriented governance. It stressed that it would not be intimidated or forced to retreat by violence or threats.

“The future of Nigeria belongs to the people, not to thugs or their sponsors,” the statement concluded, adding that the country must not be ruled by fear.

The statement was signed by the spokesperson for the ADC National and State Assembly Aspirants, Comrade Hon. Ezekiel Daniel Perela, and dated 31 January 2026.