Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria — A violent confrontation broke out on Tuesday between rival factions of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a political party in Nigeria, in Cross River State in the country’s southern region, prompting security forces to intervene.
The incident occurred in Calabar, the capital city of Cross River State in southern Nigeria, where one faction of the party had planned to hold a meeting. Police officers from the Cross River State Command of the Nigeria Police Force were deployed to the area and blocked access to the venue in order to prevent further violence and maintain public order.
Authorities said the disturbance was the result of internal disagreements within the party and was not connected to interference from Nigeria’s ruling political party, despite claims circulating on social media.
Okay News reports that tensions within the African Democratic Congress have recently intensified in Cross River State, with reports of factional disputes and internal disagreements emerging within the party’s state structure.
According to a source in Calabar who requested anonymity because he was not authorised to speak publicly on the matter, the clash was purely an internal dispute among party members.
He said, “It is an intra-party disagreement within the ADC in the state. Personnel of the Police Command have been deployed to the area to ensure peace, maintain law and order, and prevent any breakdown of public peace.
“At the moment, the two factions of the party are currently before the Commissioner of Police for an interview and dialogue aimed at resolving the issues and maintaining calm.”
The development highlights ongoing internal tensions within the African Democratic Congress, which has in recent months faced criticism from some members over alleged bias and lack of transparency within its national leadership.
The Police Public Relations Officer for the Cross River State Command of the Nigeria Police Force, Assistant Superintendent of Police Sunday Eitokpah, also confirmed the incident and assured residents that the situation had been brought under control.
He said, “Members of the public are advised to remain calm and go about their lawful activities, as the situation is under control.”
Authorities are expected to continue mediation efforts between the rival factions in an attempt to restore unity within the party and prevent further disruptions.
