The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Rivers State has raised concerns over what it described as intimidation of opposition political parties, following a directive banning all forms of public gatherings in Ikwerre Local Government Area without prior approval from the council chairman.

The party argued that the directive issued by the Chairman of Ikwerre Local Government Area, Charles Wobodo, requiring his written approval before any gathering can be held in the council, poses a threat to constitutional democracy and political participation.

In a statement issued on Monday by the party’s State Publicity Secretary, Chizy Enyi, the ADC acknowledged the security challenges confronting parts of Ikwerre, including recent killings, kidnappings and attacks on residents.

It expressed sympathy with families of victims and supported lawful efforts to restore peace and security.

“However, while insecurity must be confronted decisively, it must never become a pretext for eroding constitutional democracy or suppressing the legitimate rights of law-abiding citizens,” the statement said.

According to the party, the directive raises constitutional concerns because the rights to peaceful assembly, freedom of association and political participation are guaranteed under the Constitution and cannot be subjected to the personal approval of any local government chairman.

The ADC further alleged that its members in Ikwerre had, for several months, been subjected to intimidation, threats and disruption of lawful political meetings.

It argued that the latest directive reinforces the perception that legitimate political activities are being restricted under the guise of addressing insecurity.

The party also warned that allowing the directive to stand could encourage similar actions in other local government areas, thereby shrinking the democratic space ahead of the 2027 general elections.

It maintained that combating insecurity should focus on identifying, arresting and prosecuting criminals rather than imposing blanket restrictions on the constitutional rights of law-abiding citizens.

The ADC called on Wobodo to withdraw what it described as an unconstitutional directive.

It also urged the Rivers State Commissioner of Police and other security agencies to ensure equal protection for all registered political parties and prevent the disruption of lawful political activities.

The party further called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), civil society organisations and other democratic stakeholders to monitor developments that could undermine free political participation in Rivers State.

Reaffirming its commitment to peaceful and issue-based politics, the ADC said it would continue to exercise its constitutional rights through lawful means.

“The security of our people and the preservation of our democracy are complementary objectives. Rivers State deserves both,” the statement added.