By Sandra Kenneth
The Rivers State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly condemned alleged political threats made by Samuel Nwanosike, the former Chairman of Ikwerre Local Government Area, targeting the party’s Vice Presidential candidate, Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, and its supporters.
Describing the alleged comments as “reckless, provocative, and a dangerous assault on democracy,” the opposition party raised severe safety concerns regarding its members operating within Ikwerre Local Government Area and across the state.
The ADC’s reaction follows a viral video circulating on social media showing Nwanosike speaking at an event in Ikwerre LGA, where he purportedly issued warnings against political gatherings by the former Minister of Transportation and members of the party.
Reacting to the footage through a formal statement issued on Wednesday, the state Publicity Secretary of the ADC, Chizy Enyi, stressed that Rivers State is governed by laws and not jungle justice. He asserted that no individual or political faction holds the authority to dictate where law-abiding citizens can peacefully assemble or conduct legitimate political activities.
“The era in which political opponents could be intimidated, harassed, or violently prevented from exercising their constitutional rights must remain firmly behind us,” Enyi stated. “Nobody has a monopoly over Rivers State, and nobody, regardless of political affiliation, office, or connections, is above the law.”
Enyi emphasized that the party would neither be intimidated into silence nor driven away from any part of the state. He reaffirmed the ADC’s commitment to holding meetings, mobilizing members, and carrying out constitutional activities across all 23 Local Government Areas of Rivers State.
Formal Notice to Security Authorities
The party has formally petitioned the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other relevant security agencies to immediately investigate the video and take preventive measures before the rhetoric translates into physical violence.
The statement serves as an official notice to security agencies regarding potential threats to the safety of ADC members during upcoming political gatherings in Ikwerre LGA.
Warning against political thuggery, the ADC maintained that it would resist any attempt to disrupt its activities using lawful means. Any violent interference, the party stated, will be documented and aggressively prosecuted through security channels and the courts.
Looking ahead to the next general election cycle, the party cautioned political actors accustomed to using intimidation for political control, declaring that “2027 will not be business as usual” as Rivers residents become increasingly aware of their constitutional rights.
