The commissioning of a new secretariat belonging to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Bakassi Local Government Area of Cross River State was violently disrupted on Saturday after suspected political thugs attacked party members and vandalised property at the venue.
The incident occurred on March 14, 2026, amid rising concerns over alleged intimidation of opposition parties in the state.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers stormed the venue during the event, scattering canopies and destroying chairs, tables and sound equipment.
The hoodlums were also heard shouting that only the All Progressives Congress (APC) would be allowed to operate in Bakassi.
A video that surfaced on social media captured scenes of the attackers pulling down structures set up for the commissioning ceremony.
Sources further alleged that an operative of the Department of State Services (DSS) who was monitoring the gathering was assaulted during the chaos, with his clothes reportedly torn.
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The disruption has since sparked criticism from political observers who warned that such actions could undermine democratic principles and political tolerance as the country moves closer to the 2027 general elections.
A resident of Bakassi, Samuel Edet, described the incident as a worrying development for the state’s democratic environment.
“This is political intimidation against citizens and it has never happened in Cross River. If we do not stop it early, we may all pay for it later,” he said.
Reacting to the incident, the ADC’s 2023 governorship candidate in the state, Effiong Nyong, also condemned the attack, saying it reflects increasing political intolerance.
The Cross River State Police Command confirmed the disruption and said investigations were underway.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Eitokpah Sunday, stated that the hoodlums vandalised equipment and scattered items used for the event.
“The group disrupted the gathering by scattering canopies, chairs and sound systems at the venue. Although no arrests had been made as of the time of filing this report, police personnel and tactical teams have been stationed in the area to prevent further escalation,” he said.
