What was expected to be a defining political gathering for Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) descended into confusion and disorder after security operatives fired tear gas at participants during the party’s national convention.
The incident, which unfolded at the convention venue amid heightened political tension, disrupted proceedings and sent delegates, party members, and journalists scrambling for safety. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as thick clouds of tear gas spread across the venue, forcing many attendees to flee in different directions.
According to accounts from those present, the chaos began following disagreements among party factions over accreditation, access control, and alleged irregularities in the conduct of the convention. Tensions had reportedly been building for hours before the situation escalated.
Some delegates claimed they were denied entry into the main hall despite possessing valid credentials, while others alleged that certain groups were being given preferential treatment. The resulting frustration quickly spilled over, leading to heated exchanges and pushing, which security personnel attempted to contain.
In a bid to restore order, security operatives—whose exact affiliation was not immediately confirmed—resorted to the use of tear gas. The move, however, appeared to worsen the situation, as it triggered widespread panic rather than calming tensions.
“I couldn’t breathe. People were shouting and running everywhere,” one delegate said, recounting the moment the tear gas was discharged. “It was supposed to be a peaceful convention, but it turned into something else entirely.”
Several attendees were reportedly affected by the tear gas, with some collapsing and requiring medical attention. Volunteers and emergency responders at the venue were seen assisting individuals who had difficulty breathing or suffered minor injuries in the rush to escape.
The disruption forced a temporary halt to activities at the convention, raising concerns about the party’s ability to conduct a smooth and credible process. Party officials were later seen in hurried consultations, attempting to assess the situation and determine the next course of action.
The APC national convention is a critical event in the party’s calendar, often used to elect or reaffirm leadership, set policy directions, and consolidate internal unity. However, the latest incident has once again highlighted the deep divisions and organizational challenges within the party.
Political analysts say the chaos underscores lingering factional disputes that have plagued the APC in recent years. Disagreements over leadership positions, zoning arrangements, and control of party structures have continued to create friction among key stakeholders.
While party leaders have repeatedly called for unity and discipline, events at the convention suggest that underlying tensions remain unresolved.
Attempts to obtain an official statement from party leadership were initially unsuccessful, as senior figures were reportedly engaged in crisis management meetings. However, a source within the party acknowledged that the situation had “gotten out of hand” and required urgent intervention.
Security agencies have yet to publicly clarify the circumstances that led to the use of tear gas. It remains unclear whether the action was ordered as a last resort or if it was a spontaneous response to escalating tensions on the ground.
The incident has drawn criticism from some party members and observers, who argue that the use of force at a political gathering sends the wrong signal about internal democratic processes. Others have called for a thorough investigation to determine accountability and prevent a recurrence.
“This is not how a national convention should be conducted,” a party chieftain said. “There must be order, transparency, and respect for all participants.”
Beyond the immediate disruption, the fallout from the incident could have broader implications for the APC’s public image. As Nigeria’s ruling party, its internal processes are closely watched, and any sign of instability may affect public confidence.
For many attendees, the experience was both shocking and disappointing. What was meant to be a platform for dialogue, decision-making, and unity instead became a scene of disorder and distress.
Despite the chaos, there were indications that party leaders were determined to salvage the situation. Efforts were reportedly underway to restore calm, reorganize proceedings, and ensure that the convention could continue in a more controlled environment.
Security presence at the venue was also reinforced, with additional personnel deployed to prevent further breakdown of order.
As the situation evolves, questions remain about how the incident will shape the outcome of the convention and the future of the party. Will it serve as a wake-up call for reforms, or will it deepen existing divisions?
For now, the images of tear gas and fleeing delegates have become a stark reminder of the challenges facing political organization in Nigeria. In a setting meant to reflect democratic values and collective purpose, the events at the APC national convention have instead exposed the fragility of unity within one of the country’s most powerful political institutions.
Whether the party can recover from this moment and rebuild trust among its members will likely determine not just the success of the convention, but its broader political trajectory in the months ahead.
