The commissioning of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) secretariat in Bakassi Local Government Area of Cross River State was disrupted on Saturday after suspected thugs reportedly attacked the venue.
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from social commentators, political figures and civil society organisations.
A viral video circulating online showed hoodlums storming the venue, scattering chairs and tables, destroying sound equipment and pulling down canopies set up for the event.
In the footage, some of the attackers allegedly claimed allegiance to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and were heard saying the ADC would not be allowed to hold political activities in the area.
Reacting to the incident, political leader Barbara Etim James warned that political actors must set the right tone ahead of the 2027 general elections.
She stressed that failure to condemn such acts of violence could worsen insecurity beyond the election period.
James also called on political leaders across the state to publicly denounce the attack and ensure those responsible are arrested and prosecuted.
A civil society organisation, Citizens’ Solution Network, also condemned the disruption.
In a statement signed by its Country Director, Richard Inoyo, the group described the incident as a violation of citizens’ constitutional right to freedom of assembly.
The organisation urged law enforcement agencies to identify and prosecute those responsible for the attack.
Confirming the development, the Cross River State Police Command said officers had been deployed to restore order in the area.
Police spokesperson Eitokpah Sunday said the attackers destroyed canopies, chairs and sound systems at the venue.
He added that although no arrests had been made, security personnel had been stationed in the area to prevent further escalation.
Authorities said efforts are ongoing to identify the perpetrators and ensure calm returns to the community.
Magdalene Eyoma
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