The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned the burning of its party secretariat in Ubima, the hometown of former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, describing the incident as a criminal attack on democracy and a dangerous escalation of political violence.

The party, in a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, called on security agencies to immediately investigate the attack, identify and apprehend the perpetrators, and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.

The ADC said the arson attack forms part of what it described as a troubling pattern of intimidation against its members and supporters.

According to the party, only a few days earlier, some ADC members were shot at during a political gathering, while other party offices have also faced attacks and acts of vandalism in recent months.

“The African Democratic Congress strongly condemns the criminal attack on our party secretariat in Ubima, which was burnt to the ground last night by thugs,” the statement said.

The party described the incident not only as an attack on its organisation but also as a direct assault on democracy, political tolerance and the constitutional rights of Nigerians to freely associate and participate in the democratic process.

“This fire is not only an attack on the African Democratic Congress as a political party, it is also a direct assault on democracy, political tolerance and the constitutional rights of Nigerians,” the statement added.

ADC warned that the latest incident highlights a growing culture of political intimidation and violence that threatens Nigeria’s democratic space.

It said the repeated attacks on its offices and members appear aimed at disrupting its activities and intimidating supporters.

The party stressed that while it remains committed to peaceful democratic engagement, its restraint should not be mistaken for weakness.

ADC stated that it would take all lawful steps necessary to protect its members, supporters and facilities across the country.

“Those who believe they can intimidate opposition parties through arson, violence and criminal attacks should not assume others are incapable of defending themselves,” the statement said.

The party further called on law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that both perpetrators and sponsors of political violence are prosecuted.

ADC warned that failure to hold those responsible accountable could embolden individuals who believe violence can be used to silence political participation.

Despite the attack, the party said it remains resolute in its commitment to democratic values and political engagement.

“No amount of intimidation, arson or destruction will weaken our commitment to building a democratic Nigeria founded on justice, fairness and the rule of law,” the statement added. (AriseNews TV)