APC condemns attacks on political gatherings, demands arrest of perpetrators

By Ayorinde Oluokun

The All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council has condemned the growing wave of violence targeting political gatherings across the country, calling on security agencies to arrest and prosecute those responsible.

The campaign council specifically condemned the disruption of a scheduled town hall meeting of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Lagos on Thursday, describing it as part of a disturbing pattern of attacks against political activities.

The council also cited reported attacks in Edo, Cross River and Gombe states, as well as other incidents of violence targeting political leaders and supporters across party lines.

In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by its spokesperson, Dele Alake, the APC campaign council described the attacks as unacceptable and warned against actions capable of triggering unnecessary political crises and public disorder as electioneering activities gather momentum.

It urged political parties, candidates and their supporters to exercise restraint and conduct their campaigns peacefully, warning against the use of violence to advance political interests.

The council also challenged security agencies to strengthen their response to threats against political gatherings and ensure that those instigating or perpetrating violence are apprehended and punished in accordance with the law.

“Political parties and candidates are enjoined to campaign on issues that uplift the lives of Nigerians and not to instigate violence at political events,” the statement said.

The APC campaign council stressed that political competition should be driven by ideas, policies and programmes capable of improving the lives of Nigerians rather than intimidation, attacks and disruption of opponents’ activities.

Its intervention comes amid growing concerns over political violence as parties intensify preparations and mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections.