Suspected political thugs on Friday halted a gathering organised by the women’s wing of the African Democratic Congress in Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The incident took place in Alesa Eleme, where the intruders reportedly invaded the venue, chased away participants and destroyed materials such as canopies, chairs and sound equipment set up for the programme.
Sources said the attackers claimed the organisers failed to obtain necessary clearance, insisting that political-related activities required authorisation from the Independent National Electoral Commission.
Reacting, the National Coordinator of the ADC Young Women’s Forum, Atosemi Oma-Uwame, criticised the disruption, describing it as an attempt to undermine democratic engagement and restrict opposition activities.
She stated that the event was meant to inaugurate the forum in the locality and not for campaign purposes, alleging that a ward councillor led the action over claims that approval was not secured.
Oma-Uwame further disclosed that she had earlier received warnings against organising political events under the ADC platform in the area.
She explained that the forum was established to mobilise and support young women at the grassroots, encouraging them to participate actively in politics.
According to her, the initiative, organised in partnership with The Atosemi Movement, is focused on promoting inclusion and improving women’s representation within the party.
She also urged young women to take bold steps in politics by obtaining party tickets and contesting for elective positions rather than waiting to be given opportunities.
