The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned what it described as a disturbing escalation of political violence within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti State, warning that the ruling party is preparing to turn the state into a “war zone” ahead of the 2026 governorship election.
In a strongly worded statement signed by the State Chairman of ADC, Hon. Ilesanmi Omolayo, the party expressed outrage over the recent violent disruption of a political meeting in Ikere-Ekiti. According to the ADC, heavily armed thugs allegedly loyal to the APC stormed the gathering, attacked participants, vandalized vehicles and motorcycles, and carted away personal belongings. Several citizens reportedly sustained serious injuries in the attack.
Omolayo described the incident as “a reckless abuse of democracy and a deliberate attempt to intimidate the people into silence,” accusing the ruling party of replacing democratic engagement with violence and intimidation.
“What happened in Ikere-Ekiti is not an isolated event. It is part of a bigger plot by APC to intimidate, harass, and silence every opposition voice ahead of the 2026 election. Instead of presenting ideas and policies to the electorate, APC is arming thugs and breeding violence. This is a dangerous path that will destabilize our dear state if not stopped immediately,” the statement read.
The ADC further alleged that the APC has been “weaponizing poverty and using fear as a political tool,” noting that such tactics undermine democratic values and threaten peace in Ekiti.
Calling for urgent intervention, the party appealed to security agencies, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), civil society organizations, traditional rulers, and religious leaders to act swiftly before the situation degenerates.
“APC is playing with fire, and if this trend is not checked, Ekiti may be dragged into needless bloodshed ahead of the 2026 polls,” Omolayo warned.
Positioning itself as the credible alternative, the ADC emphasized that its politics is rooted in peace, inclusiveness, and development. The party urged citizens to resist intimidation and reject politicians who thrive on violence.
“Ekiti people must open their eyes and see clearly what is happening. APC has no ideology beyond violence and selfish ambition. Our people must say ‘never again.’ ADC offers the real alternative, an ideology that prioritizes growth, unity, and progress. We will never rule by intimidation but by ideas that uplift every Ekiti household,” the party said.
The ADC concluded by reaffirming its commitment to a violence-free campaign as the 2026 governorship race gathers momentum, urging youths in particular not to be used as political thugs.
