ADC and Ikwerre LG Chairman Clash Over Ban on Public Gatherings

The African Democratic Congress in Rivers State and the Chairman of Ikwerre Local Government Area, Charles Wobodo, are arguing over the council's recent ban on public gatherings. The opposition party claims the ban aims to intimidate political opponents ahead of the 2027 general elections.

This conflict comes as security issues are rising in Ikwerre LG. Recent killings, kidnappings, and attacks on residents have made people uneasy.

Wobodo announced the ban last week in a broadcast. He cited security threats from unknown individuals as the reason for the ban on all forms of public gatherings in the local government area.

The ADC called the directive unconstitutional. They believe it is meant to suppress opposition parties in the state.

Chizi Enyi, the ADC spokesperson in Rivers State, said in a statement from Port Harcourt on Monday that Wobodo's order, which restricts public gatherings without his written approval, should worry all those who value democracy.

Enyi recognized the security issues in Ikwerre LG, pointing out the recent violence against innocent citizens.

The statement read, "We sympathise with the families of those who have lost loved ones and support every lawful effort aimed at restoring 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 ADC believes the directive raises serious constitutional questions. The rights to peaceful assembly, freedom of association, and political participation are protected under Nigeria's Constitution. These rights should not depend on any Local Government Chairman's approval.

The party also claimed the ban did not come out of the blue. For months, ADC members in Ikwerre Local Government have faced intimidation, threats, and disruptions during their meetings.

"This latest directive unfortunately reinforces the perception that an attempt is being made to institutionalise restrictions on legitimate political activities under the guise of security."

The ADC is worried that if this directive is not challenged, it might set a bad example for other Local Government Areas. This could limit democratic activities as Rivers State gears up for the 2027 elections.

The ADC reminded public officials that security is about identifying and prosecuting criminals, not imposing blanket bans on innocent citizens' rights.

The ADC urged the Ikwerre council chairman to immediately withdraw the directive, which they called unconstitutional. They also asked the Rivers State Commissioner of Police and other security agencies to protect every registered political party and ensure lawful political activities continue.

They called on the Independent National Electoral Commission, civil society organisations, and other democratic groups to monitor any actions that could undermine free political participation in Rivers State.

The statement continued, "ADC remains committed to peaceful, issue-based and law-abiding political engagement. We shall continue to exercise our constitutional rights peacefully and responsibly and will resist every attempt to intimidate or silence democratic opposition through lawful means."

They added, "The security of our people and the preservation of our democracy are complementary objectives. Rivers State deserves both."

In response, Wariso Wariso, the Chief Press Secretary to the chairman, defended the ban. He said it was a temporary measure due to recent security threats.

Wariso stated, "What I can say is that the Chairman of Ikwerre Local Government Area placed the ban on public gatherings for now because of some security threats, and we don’t know where they are coming from."

He added, "So the emphasis is for now. However, the chairman said those or any group who intend to gather for any good cause should apply to his office to obtain permission, and it would be looked into. The action is not for eternity. It is just to forestall any breach of the peace in our local government area, and he means well."