An Uproar Unleashed: Thugs Disrupt ADC Women’s Forum Gathering in Rivers

Alleged political goons on Friday interrupted a gathering of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, Young Women Forum in Alesa, Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State.

The organization had assembled for the launching of its forum when the aggressors invaded the location, scattering participants and damaging items like canopies, loudspeakers, and seating.

The interruption caused the event to conclude unexpectedly.

As per witnesses, the trespassers asserted that the organizers did not acquire prior consent for the assembly, claiming that political activities in the region required clearance from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Even with efforts by the organizers to explain the intent of the meeting, the assailants ended it.

Reacting to the occurrence, the forum’s national coordinator, Atosemi Oma-Uwame, denounced the act, labeling it as an attempt to inhibit political involvement and silence dissenting voices.

She clarified that the assembly was solely intended to establish the forum’s presence in the local government and was not meant for campaigning, emphasizing that it was an internal discussion for young women within the party.

Oma-Uwame further disclosed that one of the participants involved in the disruption was recognized as a ward councillor, who claimed that the organizers did not secure permission from local authorities and opposed the utilization of the party’s name.

She mentioned that she had previously been cautioned against hosting the meeting under the party’s banner in the area.

Reaffirming the forum’s purpose, she stated it seeks to enhance the participation of young women in politics and elevate representation within party frameworks.

She clarified that the group is not a feminist movement but a platform dedicated to fostering gender inclusion in politics, inviting interested individuals to join the party and pursue elective positions through proper channels.