Ekiti State is seeing a rising political storm as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of politically motivated violence ahead of the 2026 governorship elections. The ADC claims that the ruling party is using intimidation and violence to silence opposition members, a charge APC vehemently denies.
ADC’s State Chairman, Ilesanmi Omolayo, issued a strong condemnation of the ruling APC, alleging that its actions were pushing Ekiti into a chaotic and unstable situation as the election draws near. According to Omolayo, the APC has resorted to violent tactics to suppress opposition parties rather than engage in meaningful political discourse. He pointed to a recent violent disruption of an ADC political meeting in Ikere Ekiti, where armed thugs reportedly attacked the gathering, injuring attendees, vandalizing vehicles, and stealing personal belongings.
“This is a reckless abuse of democracy and a deliberate attempt to silence opposition voices,” Omolayo said in a statement released on Sunday in Ado Ekiti. He accused the APC of attempting to create an environment of fear and bloodshed, which could undermine the democratic process. The ADC leader further claimed that such violence was part of a broader strategy by the APC to instil a culture of intimidation and oppression ahead of the 2026 elections.
Omolayo called on security agencies, civil society groups, religious leaders, and traditional rulers to take immediate action to prevent the situation from escalating further. He warned that Ekiti’s future should be built on stability, progress, and peace, not on fear and violence.
“The APC has no ideology other than violence and selfish ambition,” he added. “Ekiti deserves better. We must reject this culture of violence and embrace peace and unity.”
In response, APC State Publicity Secretary, Segun Dipe, dismissed the allegations as mere “noise” from political newcomers. He accused the ADC of trying to stir up an artificial crisis in Ekiti and warned the opposition party not to import insecurity into the state. According to Dipe, APC has been doing a commendable job in securing the state, with Ekiti being rated as the most secure state in Nigeria. He also emphasized that any attempt to create chaos would be swiftly dealt with by security forces.
“APC is a peaceful party. We are not desperate,” Dipe stated. “If ADC claims to be under threat, they should look out for those responsible and take appropriate action.”
Dipe also advised the ADC to inform the police whenever they plan a political gathering to ensure proper security, avoiding the need for confrontations or allegations of violence.
