The Imo State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned the reported violent attack on members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) during a meeting in Owerri, calling on security agencies to identify and prosecute those responsible.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by the party’s State Publicity Secretary, Hon. MacDonald Amadi, the ADC described the incident as a “barbaric attack” and warned against turning politics into violence. The party said it received reports that the disruption occurred during a peaceful NDC meeting held at Umuoyima Town Hall in Owerri on Tuesday evening.
According to the statement, eyewitnesses alleged that more than 20 armed men arrived in a bus and attacked participants at the gathering. The assailants were said to have used guns, knives and other dangerous weapons, leaving several people injured and destroying property, including chairs and public address equipment belonging to the NDC.
The ADC also referred to allegations that the attackers were led by an aide to the Imo State Governor but did not provide evidence to support the claim. The party urged law enforcement authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure anyone found culpable is brought to justice.
“We condemn this barbaric act in the strongest possible terms. We are all brothers and sisters. Imo State is our common home. Politics should not turn us into enemies. The blood of any Imolite is too precious to be spilled on the altar of ambition,” the statement read.
The opposition party stressed that political competition should be driven by ideas, policies and respect for democratic values rather than intimidation or violence. It urged political actors, party supporters and young people across the state to reject thuggery and embrace peaceful engagement.
ADC further maintained that its members would continue to uphold the rule of law and democratic principles, insisting that violence has no place in politics. The party also prayed for the speedy recovery of those reportedly injured during the incident and extended its sympathies to members of the NDC.
As of the time of filing this report, the Imo State Government and security agencies had not publicly responded to the allegations contained in the ADC statement.
