Local government chairmen of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Lagos State have alleged rising threats and attacks against their members, warning that such incidents could foreshadow electoral violence as the 2027 general elections approach.
At an international press conference held Friday at Lagos, the chairmen said they had reported multiple cases of intimidation to party leaders and security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS).
Speaking on behalf of the group, Hon. Ugochukwu Anaere specifically expressed concern over recent statements attributed to the Lagos State Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Mustapha Adekunle, popularly known as Sego. The ADC leaders described his alleged remarks as “provocative and threatening,” claiming they were directed at opposition party members in the state.
They likened the situation to what they called “acts of intimidation” during the 2023 general elections, when, according to them, some voters in parts of Lagos were allegedly prevented from casting ballots for candidates of their choice.
“We do not want ballot boxes snatched, stolen or victims of machete cuts and bruises littering our polling units anymore as 2027 approaches,” Anaere said. “We appeal to relevant authorities to ensure adequate security for voters and political actors irrespective of party affiliation.”
The ADC chairmen urged the federal government to act swiftly, insisting that the threats “cannot occur without tacit backing from powerful quarters” unless security agencies intervene promptly.
The party also called for amendments to the 1999 Constitution and the 2022 Electoral Act to strengthen the independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and reduce executive control over judicial appointments.
They further commended INEC for its ongoing voter registration exercise but urged the commission to extend the exercise to rural areas to ensure wider participation.
Reaffirming their confidence in the ADC’s national and state leadership, the chairmen expressed optimism that the party would offer Nigerians a credible alternative in 2027.
