The political atmosphere in Nigeria’s oil-rich Rivers State has intensified after the African Democratic Congress (ADC) accused local authorities of attempting to suppress opposition activities through what it described as an unconstitutional restriction on public gatherings.
The controversy followed a directive issued by the Chairman of Ikwerre Local Government Area, Hon. Charles Wobodo, requiring individuals and groups to obtain written approval before holding any gathering within the council area. While the local government cited growing security concerns, the ADC argued that the order threatens fundamental democratic freedoms and could undermine political participation ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
In a statement released by the party’s Rivers State Publicity Secretary, Barr. Chizy Enyi, the ADC acknowledged the worsening security situation in parts of Ikwerre, including reports of kidnappings, killings and attacks on residents. The party expressed sympathy for affected families and supported lawful efforts to restore peace and protect lives.
However, the opposition party maintained that insecurity should not become a justification for restricting constitutional rights. According to the ADC, the freedoms of peaceful assembly, association and political participation are protected under Nigeria’s Constitution and cannot be subjected to the approval of any local government official.
The party further alleged that its members in Ikwerre had experienced intimidation and disruptions during lawful political meetings in recent months, describing the latest directive as part of a broader pattern of harassment against opposition groups.
ADC warned that allowing such restrictions to stand could create a dangerous precedent across other local government areas, potentially weakening democratic competition as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.
The party called on the Ikwerre council chairman to immediately withdraw the directive and urged security agencies, including the Rivers State Police Command, to provide equal protection for all registered political parties regardless of political affiliation.
It also appealed to Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), civil society organizations and other democratic stakeholders to closely monitor developments capable of threatening political freedoms and democratic participation.
Reaffirming its commitment to peaceful and lawful political engagement, the ADC insisted that security and democracy must go hand in hand, stressing that Rivers State deserves both public safety and the protection of constitutional rights.
