By Asuquo Cletus
A violent clash erupted between members of the African Democratic Congress in Cross River State, prompting swift intervention by the police.
The incident occurred in Calabar, where one of the factions had scheduled a meeting before tensions escalated into a confrontation between supporters of the rival groups.
Police personnel were subsequently deployed to the venue, blocking access to the meeting location and restoring order in the area to prevent further escalation.
Sources familiar with the development who spoke with our correspondent on Tuesday described the incident as an intra-party crisis linked to disagreements over the party’s structure and positioning ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The sources clarified that contrary to claims circulating on social media, the clash was not connected to any attempt by the ruling party to suppress opposition activities.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, the source said the crisis stemmed purely from internal disagreements within the party.
“It is an intra-party disagreement within the ADC in the state. Personnel of the Police Command have been deployed to the area to ensure peace, maintain law and order, and prevent any breakdown of public peace,” the source said.
He added that leaders of the two factions were invited by the Commissioner of Police for a meeting aimed at resolving the dispute.
“At the moment, the two factions of the party are currently before the Commissioner of Police for an interview and dialogue aimed at resolving the issues and maintaining calm,” the source added.
Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Cross River State Command, Sunday Eitokpah, said the situation had been brought under control.
According to him, security personnel were deployed promptly to prevent the situation from degenerating into a wider security breach.
“Members of the public are advised to remain calm and go about their lawful activities, as the situation is under control,” Eitokpah said.
Our correspondent who visited the venue of the incident later in the evening observed a heavy presence of security operatives stationed around the area, while activities remained largely subdued as party members and residents avoided gathering near the location of the earlier clash.
Police patrol vehicles were also seen monitoring the surroundings to ensure that the situation did not escalate further.
