Following reports of violence involving opposition figures in Benin City, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has announced plans to seek redress at the ECOWAS Court.
The party said the incident occurred on Tuesday and involved former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and other political figures who were reportedly present at the residence of John Odigie-Oyegun after attending an event at the ADC secretariat. According to Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, the group had just formally welcomed Olumide Akpata into the party before the alleged attack took place.
In a statement shared on Wednesday, ADC National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, described the incident as part of what he termed a growing pattern of political intimidation targeting opposition members. He said the party considers the matter serious and plans to report it to diplomatic missions across the West African sub-region, in addition to pursuing legal action at the ECOWAS court.
Abdullahi also criticised recent comments attributed to the Edo State governor, alleging that such statements could heighten political tensions. He accused the ruling party of engaging in intimidation and claimed that threats had been made against opposition members, including warnings concerning security and property. The party rejected what it described as attempts to link it to criminal activities, insisting that Nigeria is governed by constitutional rights that guarantee freedom of expression and association.
The ADC stated that it is documenting what it considers incidents of harassment and will take lawful steps to protect its members and supporters nationwide.
The party urged its followers to remain calm, law-abiding and vigilant, reaffirming its commitment to pursuing all available legal avenues to address the situation.
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