ADC Accuses APC of Terrorism Over Edo Attack, Threatens ECOWAS Court Action

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has issued a scathing condemnation of what it described as a gun attack and assassination attempt in Edo State targeting former governor John Oyegun, party leader Peter Obi, and Olumide Akpata, declaring that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is proving to be a terrorist organisation.

In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the opposition party said the incident reflects a troubling pattern of political intimidation against the opposition and accused Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo of making inflammatory claims that have heightened tensions.

The ADC stated that the attack was not an isolated incident but rather "bears the unmistakable marks of a dangerous and escalating pattern of political intimidation and terror against our party across the country."

The party declared that "the resort to gunfire against lawful political actors represents an act of terrorism against the opposition, which has no place in a constitutional democracy."

The ADC expressed particular alarm at what it described as a pattern of inflammatory rhetoric from Governor Okpebholo, including his earlier threat that he would not guarantee Peter Obi's safety should he visit Edo State.

The party also criticised the governor for subsequent claims that the ADC was sponsoring cultism in Edo State and his threat to start demolishing opposition properties in the state.

"Let it be said plainly: Nigeria is not a private estate. Edo State is not the personal property of any party or any governor," the statement read. "No elected official has the constitutional authority to threaten, harass, or endanger law-abiding political actors for exercising their democratic rights."

The ADC warned that its members and supporters have constitutional rights to freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, and lawful self-defence.

The party issued a stern warning to both the Federal Government and the Edo State Government, stating that "if any harm comes to our leaders, members, or supporters as a result of this escalating climate of official hostility, intimidation, or incitement, the responsibility for whatever consequences follow will rest squarely with those who choose the path of provocation over the path of peace."

Furthermore, the ADC announced that it is compiling all cases of what it termed "acts of terrorism" by the ruling APC against its party. The opposition party stated that it intends to make these reports available to all diplomatic missions as well as to the ECOWAS Court of Human Rights.