The family home of African Democratic Congress (ADC) member Isaiah Thomas in Aluu, Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State, was attacked and set ablaze in the early hours of Wednesday, just one day after the official commencement of campaigns for the 2023 presidential and National Assembly elections. The arson incident has raised alarm over security and political tensions ahead of the polls, with Thomas’ mother confirming that armed attackers stormed the compound, setting multiple structures on fire and destroying household property.
Uchechi Thomas, the victim’s mother, told reporters that a large group of men arrived at the family residence, heavily armed with guns, and began burning buildings within the compound. She stated that the attackers seemed to be specifically searching for her son, who had hosted a meeting of ADC members at the house the previous day. “They came in numbers, with guns, and started burning our buildings,” she said. “We don’t know who they are or what their motive is.” The attack left several structures damaged and caused significant loss of personal belongings and valuables.
The Chairman of Ikwerre Local Government Area, Charles Wobodo, swiftly responded to the incident by condemning the violence and deploying his Chief Security Officer to the scene for an immediate assessment. He assured residents that the local government would collaborate closely with security agencies to identify those responsible and ensure justice is served. “This is unacceptable,” Wobodo declared. “We will not tolerate such acts of intimidation and violence during this critical electoral period.”
Meanwhile, the Rivers State Police Command has confirmed that an investigation is underway to determine the cause of the fire and uncover the perpetrators. Authorities are collecting evidence from the scene and interviewing witnesses to piece together the events leading up to the attack. The police have also increased patrols in the area to prevent further incidents and reassure the public.
The timing of the attack—just 24 hours after campaign activities officially began—has sparked concerns about political violence and insecurity in Rivers State. As Nigeria prepares for its general elections, incidents like this underscore the need for heightened vigilance and effective security measures. The ADC and other political parties have called for calm and urged security agencies to protect candidates and party members from threats and attacks.
With election day approaching, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing Nigeria’s democratic process. It highlights the importance of ensuring that political campaigns remain peaceful and free from intimidation. The outcome of the ongoing investigation will be closely watched by both the public and political stakeholders across the country.
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