Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Calabar, Nigeria — New details have emerged surrounding the disruption of an African Democratic Congress (ADC) event in Bakassi Local Government Area of Cross River State and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) steadfast denial of involvement, as political tensions intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Political leaders, analysts, and opposition figures have weighed in on the incident that drew widespread attention this month, fueling debates over political tolerance, party rivalry, and the broader stability of Nigeria’s democratic space. Authorities in Cross River have insisted that the incident was not orchestrated by the APC, while opposition voices say disruption of political activities is becoming increasingly common nationwide.
Disruption at ADC Event in Bakassi
An event organised by the ADC to mark the opening of a new secretariat in Bakassi was reportedly disrupted by unidentified youths, according to eyewitness accounts. In videos circulated online, canopies, chairs, and sound equipment were seen being pulled down and damaged as confusion spread through the venue, and at least one individual was heard urging the crowd that only the APC should operate in the area. Police in Cross River confirmed the incident took place but initially made no arrests due to the volatile security situation. Local residents described the scene as chaotic, with the disruption cutting short the intended political programme. This incident followed other reported disruptions affecting ADC activities in Calabar, raising questions about the safety of opposition operations in the state.
In response, APC State Chairman Hon. Christopher Etta addressed journalists in Calabar, denying any link between the ruling party and the violence, and placing the blame on “internal rifts” within the ADC itself. Etta explained that the organisation was divided into factions, one of which appeared to be attempting to seize control of the secretariat from another. He said: “From our findings, they had two factions. One faction was opening or taking over a secretariat which the other faction had. That is where their problem came.”
Etta challenged why the APC’s name was dragged into the controversy, suggesting that some individuals saw an opportunity for publicity by implicating the ruling party. He asked rhetorically, “What is APC to gain? The way you are seeing this state currently, does it look like we are afraid of anybody?” expressing confidence in his party’s position within the state.
He reiterated that the APC did not shy away from opposition but thrived in an environment where ideas and policies compete in a democratic “marketplace,” and he described the party as “united” ahead of its zonal congress, having resolved internal disputes. Etta also dismissed threats posed by opposition coalitions involving figures such as former governors Donald Duke and Liyel Imoke and other political figures like Senator Gershom Bassey and ex‑Minister Usani Usani, saying their combined strength was no match for the APC’s standing in the state.
Political Context and Growing Tensions
The ADC is a registered political party in Nigeria that has gained national attention in recent years by attracting prominent figures from other parties into coalition efforts. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar left the Peoples Democratic Party to join the ADC as part of a strategic alliance intended to challenge the APC’s dominance in the 2027 elections, and former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi also aligned himself with the ADC’s broader coalition push. These moves elevated the party’s profile ahead of the upcoming election cycle but have also exposed fault lines within the ADC. Analysts point to internal disagreements over leadership and presidential ambition — particularly the desire among supporters of Peter Obi that he secure the party’s ticket — as sources of tension.
Political intolerance and disruptions of opposition activities have emerged as a national concern in the lead‑up to 2027. Observers have noted reports from across several states, including Lagos, Rivers, Imo, Oyo, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom, where meetings and events organised by opposition groups have been disrupted or allegedly interfered with. Some opposition figures have suggested that local actors sympathetic to powerful interests are responsible, while the APC consistently denies any involvement, arguing that many reported incidents stem from disputes within opposition ranks rather than official party strategy.
The broader pattern has sparked debate about political tolerance and the health of Nigeria’s democracy as the nation approaches a fiercely contested election year. Political parties, advocacy groups, and civil society leaders are calling for respect for constitutional rights, peaceful engagement, and transparent competition.
National Opposition Dynamics
The ADC’s growth and reconfiguration reflect a shifting opposition landscape in Nigeria. Traditionally dominated by the APC on one side and the PDP on the other, the entry of national figures such as Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi into the ADC’s camp has generated optimism among some Nigerians for a viable alternative. The party describes itself as a big‑tent organisation with appeal across different segments of society, and it continues to mobilise support in various states.
However, the intense negotiations, defections, and coalition talks have also created internal friction. Tensions over presidential ambitions and leadership contests are visible, and incidents such as the Bakassi disruption have been interpreted by some supporters as symptomatic of weakness or disorganisation. Meanwhile, social media conversations around the political scene are animated, with commentary ranging from enthusiastic support for emerging opposition alliances to skepticism over their cohesion and capacity to challenge established parties.
APC’s Position Ahead of 2027
The APC remains one of the two dominant political parties in Nigeria. Founded in 2013 from a merger of several opposition movements, it has held presidential power since 2015. In Cross River State, the party asserts strong influence, including representation in the Senate for the Cross River South senatorial district. The APC in the state says it welcomes competition and believes that a vibrant opposition strengthens democratic practice, but maintains that it has no stake in engineered disruptions of political events.
As the 2027 general election approaches, political engagement is increasing across the country. Parties are mobilising supporters, conducting internal congresses, and shaping their platforms. At the same time, debates over political violence, freedom of assembly, and electoral integrity continue to shape national discourse.
Analysts argue that safeguarding democratic norms, ensuring security for all political actors, and promoting respectful competition will be critical to a credible electoral process. The incident in Bakassi, and the ensuing reactions, underscore these challenges and the importance of clear communication, accurate reporting, and restraint in political engagement.
While the APC denies any involvement in the disruption of the ADC event, both parties and civil society stakeholders now face the task of rebuilding trust, clarifying narratives, and setting the tone for peaceful participation as Nigeria moves closer to a pivotal election year.
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