ADO-EKITI, Nigeria — A governorship aspirant of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Ekiti State, Apostle Ayodele David-Adesua, has condemned the attack on the party’s state secretariat, describing it as criminal and undemocratic.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The incident occurred on Tuesday at the ADC secretariat in Ado-Ekiti, where unidentified persons reportedly damaged property and disrupted party activities. No casualties were reported, but party officials said the attack was aimed at intimidating members ahead of the 2026 governorship election.

In a statement released on Wednesday, David-Adesua called the attack “a deliberate attempt to silence the voices of opposition and undermine democratic values in Ekiti State.”

“This is a criminal act and a disgrace to those who believe in democracy,” he said. “No amount of violence will separate us from our belief in political freedom and the right to contest.”

He urged the police and other security agencies to investigate the incident and bring those responsible to justice. According to him, the safety of political actors and citizens must be guaranteed for democracy to thrive.

Party officials said they had earlier reported threats from unknown individuals warning them to “stay away from politics” or face attacks. The ADC leadership accused “political thugs loyal to rival interests” of being behind the incident, though they did not name any specific party or individuals.

The Ekiti State Police Command confirmed receiving a report of the attack and said investigations were ongoing. A police spokesperson assured residents that security would be increased around political offices to prevent further violence.

The attack comes as preparations intensify for the 2026 governorship election, scheduled for June 20, 2026, according to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The ADC, though smaller compared to the major political parties, has been positioning itself as an alternative platform ahead of the polls.

Political analysts have expressed concern that the incident could be a sign of rising tension ahead of the election. Cases of intimidation and vandalism have been reported in the past during election cycles in the state.

“This kind of attack undermines public trust in the political process,” said Adebayo Olumide, a political commentator based in Ado-Ekiti. “When party offices are targeted, it sends the wrong message to citizens about safety and fairness.”

David-Adesua called on his supporters to remain calm and law-abiding, urging them not to respond to provocation. He also appealed to the Ekiti State government to ensure that all political parties enjoy equal protection under the law.

“Our democracy must not be built on fear,” he said. “Every citizen has the right to participate freely in the electoral process without intimidation or harassment.”

The ADC’s state chairman, Mr. Tope Ajayi, also condemned the attack and said the party would continue its preparations for the election despite the setback. He appealed to the public to support peace and tolerance as political activities increase across the state.

The latest incident adds to growing concerns about political violence ahead of the 2026 elections in Nigeria. Civil society groups have repeatedly called for stronger security measures and public awareness campaigns to prevent attacks and ensure peaceful participation.

Observers say how authorities respond to such incidents will shape the credibility of the upcoming election. For many in Ekiti, the hope is that justice will be served quickly and that politics will be conducted in an atmosphere of peace and fairness.