The inaugural meeting of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) Young Women’s Forum was on Friday disrupted by suspected political thugs in Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The incident occurred at Alesa Eleme, where the group had gathered for its maiden meeting. Eyewitnesses said the assailants stormed the venue, forcing participants to flee while vandalising canopies, chairs, loudspeakers, and other equipment set up for the event.
According to those present, the attackers claimed that the organisers failed to secure prior approval to hold the gathering. They also argued that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had not authorised any political activities in the area.
Reacting to the development, the National Coordinator of the ADC Young Women’s Forum, Atosemi Oma-Uwame, strongly condemned the disruption, describing it as an attempt to intimidate and silence opposition voices ahead of future elections.
She explained that the meeting was not a political campaign but a forum organised to bring together young women within the party in her Eleme constituency.
Oma-Uwame alleged that the disruption was led by a ward councillor, who insisted that no event should be held in the community under the ADC platform without his approval.
She further revealed that she had received prior warnings against organising any gathering associated with her political party in the area.
Describing the incident as a threat to democratic participation, Oma-Uwame said such actions discourage political involvement, particularly among women.
She noted that the forum was organised in partnership with The Atosemi Movement to strengthen grassroots mobilisation and create opportunities for women to actively engage in politics.
According to her, the initiative is focused on promoting inclusiveness and gender balance within the party, rather than advancing any form of feminist agenda.
Oma-Uwame encouraged young women to take an active role in politics, urging them to seek elective positions and participate fully in the democratic process without fear or hesitation.
Suspected Thugs Disrupt ADC Young Women’s Forum Meeting in Rivers
