Hoodlums Set ADC Ekiti Secretariat Ablaze, Injure Chairman Amid Inauguration Chaos

There was a violent incident in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, on Tuesday as suspected hoodlums set fire to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) State Secretariat located in the Basiri area. The early morning arson destroyed the party’s secretariat and several items including plastic chairs, canopies, sound equipment, and other office materials, many of which were rented for that day’s inauguration of ADC executives at various ward, local government, and state levels.

Hours after the secretariat was razed, the attackers, described as hoodlums operating in a commando-like fashion, regrouped in large numbers and stormed the inauguration venue. They unleashed gunshots into the air, forcing ADC members, journalists, and bystanders to flee for safety. Several vehicles and a motorcycle belonging to a journalist were vandalized, and event equipment was destroyed beyond repair.

Fifteen minutes after the hoodlums withdrew, ADC National Secretary Mr. Rauf Aregbesola arrived under tight security and proceeded with the inauguration despite the disruptions. Speaking to reporters, Aregbesola condemned the attack strongly as an intolerant and shameful assault on democracy. He expressed deep disappointment over the actions of those who, despite emerging through democratic processes, resort to violence and intimidation against opposition voices. Aregbesola described the incident as a sign of a dangerous descent toward fascism and accused security agencies of negligence in protecting the party’s property and members.

ADVERTISEMENT

Former Ekiti State Deputy Governor Kolapo Olusola-Eleka joined in condemning the attack, labeling it political terrorism and a dangerous threat to democratic freedoms in Ekiti State, which has historically been known for peace and tolerance. He lamented the delayed response of security operatives despite early reports of the attack.

The Ekiti State Police confirmed the incident, with Police Spokesman Sunday Abutu stating that the Commissioner of Police, Joseph Eribo, had ordered a full investigation and vowed to apprehend those responsible.

This incident reflects mounting political tensions in Ekiti and raises serious concerns over political violence and the protection of democratic institutions in the state.