The African Democratic Congress in Kebbi State has raised the alarm over an alleged plot to arrest some of its members, including its spokesperson, accusing unnamed influential individuals of attempting to use security agencies to intimidate opposition figures.

The party also alleged that the residence of one of its members, Mudasir Sani, was recently raided over his activities on social media, where he reportedly promotes the party’s policies and political messages.

The allegations were contained in a statement issued on Tuesday in Birnin Kebbi and signed by the party’s Deputy Publicity Secretary, Abubakar Musa.

The ADC called on the Kebbi State Government, the Nigeria Police Force and human rights organisations to investigate the alleged incidents and ensure that its members were not harassed or intimidated because of their political affiliations.

According to the party, reports reaching it indicated that some influential individuals had discussed plans to use security agencies against members expressing political opinions and promoting the ADC on social media platforms.

“Of particular concern to the party is the allegation that even the ADC spokesperson is among those reportedly being targeted for arrest,” the statement said.

The party warned that any confirmed attempt to arrest opposition members for expressing political views would raise serious concerns about the protection of fundamental rights and democratic freedoms.

ADC raises concerns over alleged raid

On the alleged raid on Sani’s residence, the party demanded an explanation from the relevant authorities, insisting that his constitutional rights must be respected.

“The party calls on the relevant authorities to clarify the reasons behind the raid and ensure that his fundamental rights as a citizen are fully respected,” it said.

The ADC maintained that the alleged incidents were not isolated, recalling that its Maiyama Local Government Chairman was recently arrested and reportedly spent almost two weeks in prison before being released.

It also disclosed that about eight members of its media team were currently facing court proceedings.

Party demands police explanation

The opposition party further accused the police of failing to provide adequate information about a formal complaint it lodged against a senior government official more than a month ago.

It said it had submitted the complaint at the Kebbi State Police Command headquarters but had yet to receive a comprehensive update on the investigation.

The ADC urged the police to clarify the status of the complaint and ensure that investigations were conducted without political interference or favouritism.

It also called on the National Human Rights Commission to investigate reports of alleged human rights violations, intimidation and harassment involving its members.

The party urged judicial authorities to uphold due process and ensure equal protection under the law, irrespective of political affiliation.

Police deny political allegiance

Reacting to the allegations, the Kebbi State Police Command spokesperson, SP Bashir Usman, said the command remained apolitical and would not serve the interests of any political party.

He reaffirmed the police commitment to providing adequate security for all political parties during their activities in the state.

“We are not for any political party, and we have assured all political parties in the state of maximum security cover during their programmes. All they need to do is inform us ahead,” he said.

Meanwhile, efforts to obtain a reaction from the Kebbi State Government were unsuccessful, as the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ahmed Idris, could not be reached as of the time of filing the report.

The ADC urged its members to remain peaceful and law-abiding, advising them to report cases of intimidation or harassment to the appropriate authorities rather than resorting to self-help.

Reaffirming its position, the party said belonging to an opposition political party was not a crime and that citizens had the right to express political opinions and criticise government policies within the confines of the law.

It warned that intimidation and threats against opposition members could undermine democratic participation and the rule of law.