Former presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi on Sunday condemned the violent disruption of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, secretariat opening in Bakassi Local Government Area, Cross River State, describing the incident as “an attack on democracy itself.”
In a statement shared via X, Obi said the assault by suspected political thugs highlighted a concerning decline in Nigeria’s democratic standards.
“What happened at the ADC office in Bakassi is not merely an attack on a political party; it is an attack on democracy itself,” Obi said.
He further warned that the erosion of leadership standards and the tolerance of political misconduct could destabilize the nation.
“When thugs can storm a party office and destroy property without facing arrest, it reflects how dangerously low our democratic standards have fallen,” he stated.
Obi also cautioned that fraudulent practices in politics could pave the way for violence in the country.
“The ability for individuals to present forged certificates for election sends a troubling message to our society. If we continue down this path, violence may become the future of our democracy,” he said.
He stressed that genuine leadership cannot emerge from fraud and intimidation, noting that such actions ultimately threaten the well-being of citizens and future generations.
The former Anambra State governor’s remarks followed reports that suspected thugs stormed the venue during the ADC secretariat launch on Saturday, dispersing party supporters and destroying canopies, loudspeakers, chairs, and other equipment arranged for the event.