By Jelili Gbadamosi
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called on security agencies to investigate an attack on the family residence of one of its members, Isaiah Thomas, in Omuoko, Aluu, Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The party made the demand after its leaders visited the residence on Wednesday, following an early-morning attack in which parts of the property were allegedly set ablaze.
The incident occurred about 24 hours after the commencement of campaigns for the presidential and National Assembly elections.
According to the party, the attackers, whose identities remain unknown, stormed the family compound in large numbers and were reportedly armed with guns before setting some buildings on fire.
Thomas’ mother, Uchechi Thomas, alleged that household belongings were also destroyed during the incident. She claimed the attackers appeared to be searching for her son after he hosted a meeting of ADC members at the residence on Tuesday.
Reacting to the development, the ADC governorship candidate in Rivers State, Gabriel Pidomson, condemned the attack and described it as a threat to peaceful democratic participation.
Pidomson urged political parties, candidates and their supporters to tolerate opposing views and conduct their activities within the provisions of the law.
He called on security agencies to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation, identify those behind the attack and prosecute anyone found responsible.
The ADC candidate also appealed for calm among residents and party supporters, stressing that political disagreements should be settled through dialogue and lawful processes rather than violence.
The state chairman of the party, Chukwudi Dimkpa, similarly appealed to the Rivers State Commissioner of Police to ensure that the incident was properly investigated and that justice was served.
The ADC leadership reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful political participation, democracy and the rule of law, while urging political stakeholders in Rivers State to avoid actions capable of threatening lives and property.
