ADC vows to proceed with Sokoto campaign despite intimidation
ADC to Continue Campaign in Sokoto Despite Alleged Intimidation
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has confirmed its intention to proceed with planned campaign activities in Sokoto State, despite claims of intimidation and obstruction by the state government aimed at undermining opposition efforts.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC National Publicity Secretary, accused Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s administration of attempting to frustrate the party’s political activities as the state prepares for the 2027 general elections. He warned that the governor would be held accountable for any acts of violence directed at opposition members or their supporters.
Abdullahi emphasized the right of all political parties to campaign freely, asserting that no governor has the authority to hinder such activities. “The Sokoto State Government must understand that governing a state does not confer ownership. Public office is a temporary mandate from the people, not a license to suppress political competition,” he stated.
He called on the state government to cease its alleged efforts to disrupt the ADC’s lawful activities and to ensure a fair political environment for all parties. Abdullahi also reminded security agencies and public institutions of their constitutional duty to the Nigerian populace, rather than the interests of the ruling party.
Public officials who misuse their power to obstruct political activities will face legal repercussions, he added. “Let there be no misunderstanding. The ADC will campaign in Sokoto State. We will not be intimidated, obstructed, or pushed out of any part of Nigeria simply because those in power are afraid of political competition,” Abdullahi said.
He argued that democratic participation is a constitutional right that should not be granted at the whim of elected officials. He challenged the ruling party to engage in an open contest if it believes it has effectively served the people.
“Intimidation cannot manufacture public support, and obstruction cannot take away the people’s right to choose their leaders,” Abdullahi remarked, stressing the importance of allowing citizens to hear diverse ideas and make informed decisions.
In light of the recent sealing of the ADC’s campaign office due to an alleged ownership dispute, the party has called for its immediate reopening. The move follows a confrontation between supporters of opposing political factions, as announced by the state’s Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Nasiru Dantsoho.
The ADC previously accused the state government of using police intimidation against opposition members and has demanded that its campaign office be restored. Abdullahi concluded his remarks by asserting that the future of Sokoto belongs to its citizens, not to any single governor or political party.
