ADC alleges APC uses thugs, security agencies to disrupt opposition meetings ahead of 2027 elections

Kenneth Okonkwo, member of the National Working Committee of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of deploying thugs and misusing state security agencies to interrupt opposition meetings and rallies nationwide.

Speaking on Arise Television on Monday, Okonkwo, a former Labour Party spokesperson, dismissed claims that the ADC was losing momentum. He insisted the party remains vibrant and fully prepared to challenge the APC in the 2027 general elections.

“ADC is on fire. The only thing is that we have an APC that is using every method to intimidate and scatter the plans of the opposition,” Okonkwo said.

The Nollywood actor-turned-politician alleged that security agencies supervised violent disruptions at several ADC events across different states. He cited incidents in Kaduna and Lagos, where ADC gatherings were allegedly broken up by thugs under the watch of security personnel.

“Recall in Kaduna State, ADC wanted to meet and they were scattered by thugs. In Lagos, when Rhodes-Vivour organised an ADC meeting, they were scattered by thugs under the supervision of security agencies,” he said.

Okonkwo further accused the APC of instigating similar disruptions in Ekiti State, actions he said contravene the Electoral Act, which mandates security agencies to protect all political parties during rallies and meetings.

“In Ekiti State, APC again went to scatter ADC when they were having their meeting. According to the Electoral Act, the security agency is meant to provide security for any party that wants to organise any rally or meeting,” he said.

He described the ruling party as “jittery,” claiming its actions are driven by fear of losing power. Okonkwo also downplayed the impact of defections into the APC, insisting the party would face defeat in 2027.

“APC is jittery; ADC is going to form the next government of Nigeria. We are strategising, and we are going to beat this APC—they are already imploding. The people of Nigeria are against the APC, and they will lose the election,” he added.