Borno ADC rejects Ndume's claim of hiring thugs to disrupt Gwoza rally

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) Campaign Council in Borno State has firmly rejected allegations that it hired political thugs to disrupt a rally held by the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Gwoza Local Government Area. The denial was issued by Bukar Bukar-Petrol, the Director of Communications for the ADC Campaign Council in Borno, following accusations made by Senator Ali Ndume, who represents the Borno South Senatorial District at the National Assembly.

Bukar-Petrol addressed the claims in an interview with Channels Television on Monday in Maiduguri. He stated that the allegations were made on Friday, 6 November 2026, when Senator Ndume accused the ADC of causing disorder during an APC political gathering in Gwoza. The ADC spokesperson clarified that the party's recent visits to communities in the area were conducted peacefully and in accordance with democratic principles. He emphasized that the council dissociates itself from any acts of violence, civil disorder, or activities that could undermine peace and security in Gwoza or elsewhere in Borno State.

Background

The controversy stems from a political rally held by the APC in Gwoza Local Government Area on 6 November 2026. Senator Ali Ndume, a member of the ruling party, alleged that the ADC hired individuals to cause disruption during the event. In response, Bukar-Petrol detailed the ADC's activities during the same period, noting that delegations visited the Emir’s Palace in Pulka, settlements for internally displaced persons (IDPs), and other local communities. He asserted that these engagements were orderly, free from confrontation, and devoid of any violent incidents. The ADC spokesperson framed the party's presence as a reflection of growing public interest in the ADC, which he attributed to voters seeking a credible political alternative to the APC's performance and perceived inadequate representation.

Why it matters

The dispute highlights the intensifying political competition in Borno State, a region with a complex security and social landscape. Senator Ndume's accusations suggest an attempt to frame the ADC's campaign activities as destabilizing, while the ADC maintains that its actions are lawful and peaceful. Bukar-Petrol argued that any decline in public confidence in elected representatives, including Senator Ndume, is a result of the people's assessment of their leadership and cannot be legitimately blamed on the ADC. He described this dynamic as the essence of democratic choice and political competition. The ADC reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful political engagement and lawful campaigning, aiming to protect its image as a responsible opposition force in the state.

What happens next

Bukar-Petrol has issued a direct challenge to Senator Ali Ndume to provide verifiable evidence supporting the allegations. Specifically, the ADC spokesperson demanded the production of an official police report confirming that the ADC disrupted the rally. Until such evidence is presented, the ADC maintains that the claims are baseless political allegations. The outcome of this demand may determine whether the incident remains a political dispute or escalates into a formal legal or administrative inquiry, depending on the response from the senator and relevant security agencies.