Violent Disruption at ADC Rally in Rivers State

An inaugural meeting organized by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) Young Women Forum was marred by violence on Friday in Eleme Local Government Area (LGA) of Rivers State.

According to a report from the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), a group of suspected political thugs entered the event in Alesa Eleme, forcing supporters to flee and causing significant damage to canopies, loudspeakers, chairs, and other materials.

The intruders interrupted the meeting, claiming that the organizers had not received necessary authorization and accusing them of conducting unauthorized political activities without the approval of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

In response to the incident, the National Coordinator of the ADC Young Women’s Forum, Ms. Atosemi Oma-Uwame, expressed strong disapproval. She labeled the disruption as an effort to undermine democratic participation and target opposition parties in the lead-up to elections.

“We convened today to establish the ADC Young Women Forum in Eleme LGA when a group of thugs, reportedly led by a local councillor (name withheld), interrupted our meeting,” she stated.

Oma-Uwame recounted the councillor's assertion that the event lacked his office's approval, clarifying that it was not intended as a campaign but rather as a gathering of ADC affiliates from her constituency.

“They instructed me that if I wish to conduct any event in the community, I should refrain from using the ADC name or referencing my political party,” she added.

Oma-Uwame remarked that she had been previously warned against hosting any event affiliated with her party within the area.

“This attack on our meeting signifies an attempt to stifle democracy and curb political discourse,” she emphasized.

She mentioned that the gathering was organized in partnership with The Atosemi Movement (TAM) to foster grassroots empowerment among women.

“The forum is designed to provide a platform for young women in politics to unite and pursue common objectives,” she articulated.

Furthermore, Oma-Uwame clarified that the group is not a feminist movement but is focused on promoting gender equality within her political party.

“We believe young women should confidently engage in politics, and there's no need to seek permission from men for our rights,” she highlighted.

“We encourage all young women aspiring to enter politics or run for office to acquire party forms and pursue their ambitions,” she concluded. (NAN)