Former presidential candidate Mr. Peter Obi on Sunday criticized the violent disruption that occurred during the opening of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) secretariat in Bakassi Local Government Area of Cross River State, calling it “an attack on democracy itself.”
In a statement posted on X, Obi said the incident—allegedly carried out by political thugs—reflects a worrying deterioration in Nigeria’s democratic norms and political environment.
“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.