The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Cross River State has condemned what it described as attempts by non-members to hijack the party’s structure, insisting that the party remains united under the leadership of its State Chairman, Dr. John Ogar.
By Victoria Omini
Speaking during a press briefing in Calabar, the Vice Chairman Dr Mcphalane Ejah of ADC in the Central Senatorial District, who represented the state chairman, said the party leadership was compelled to address what it called a troubling development involving individuals allegedly organizing meetings in the name of the party without authorization.
He expressed appreciation to party members across the state for their steadfast commitment to the growth of the ADC and reiterated the party’s dedication to people-centered development and democratic principles.
“As an opposition party, ADC in Cross River State is committed to people-centric development, placing the interests of the people at heart. We believe that the will of the people should prevail and be respected. We reject impunity and imposition and will not tolerate actions or attitudes that undermine the democratic will of the people,” he said.
The party maintained that ADC in the state has no faction and operates strictly in accordance with its constitution, stressing that the only recognized leadership structure is headed by Ambassador Dr. John Oga.
Addressing the controversy surrounding the planned inauguration of what was described as a Membership Mobilization, Registration and Revalidation Committee for the 18 local government areas, the party said the committee was unknown to the state leadership and therefore not recognized.
“The state leadership of ADC in Cross River State was not involved in submitting the published names of the membership of the purported committee. The composition is alien to us. Even in its alien status, the committee has refused to visit or recognize the state leadership,” the representative said.
He alleged that the development appeared to be part of a calculated attempt by certain individuals to hijack the party structure for personal interests, challenging those behind the move to openly identify themselves.
The ADC leadership said it had taken steps to prevent a breakdown of law and order by notifying security agencies about the unauthorized meeting scheduled to take place at the Ascot Event Centre along Marian Road in Calabar.
According to him, the party formally wrote to the Commissioner of Police to inform the authorities that the meeting was being convened by persons not recognized by the party and warned that allowing it to proceed could lead to unrest.
“We approached the relevant law enforcement agencies because ADC abhors violence. As an opposition party, we must ensure that violence is not ascribed to us. When our members started calling to ask about the authenticity of the meeting, we made it clear that it was not approved by the state leadership,” he said.
He added that the convener of the meeting was invited by the police and acknowledged the need to respect constituted authority but allegedly insisted that the meeting could not be called off because resources had already been committed.
Dr. McFarlane Ejar, dismissed suggestions that the ruling party had any involvement in the dispute, describing such claims as baseless.
“The ruling party has nothing to do with ADC. We approached the police simply to maintain peace and ensure there is no breakdown of law and order. Anyone suggesting otherwise is only displaying ignorance,” he said.
Responding to questions from journalists about prominent political figures who have recently shown interest in the party, the ADC leadership commended former governor Donald Duke for following due process when he joined the party.
According to the party, Duke registered at his ward level and recognized the existing leadership structure, which it described as the proper procedure for anyone wishing to become a member.
“Any leader who refuses to recognize an existing structure is not demonstrating leadership but tyranny. His Excellency Donald Duke followed the proper process and respected the party structure,” the representative said.
He further stressed that the ADC would not allow individuals who had not built the party to take control of its structure, noting that membership of the party remains open to all Nigerians willing to follow its constitution and procedures.
The party also challenged individuals allegedly pushing the controversial committee to show evidence of their contribution to the growth of the ADC in the state, maintaining that the party’s secretariat and activities had been funded through the collective efforts of committed members.
On preparations for future elections, the ADC leadership confirmed that the party is already positioning itself for the 2027 general elections.
“ADC is prepared for elections from the ward to all levels. Any political party that intends to remain relevant must field candidates. We are interested in presenting credible candidates who will contribute to democratic development in Nigeria and in Cross River State,” the party stated.
The leadership concluded by reaffirming its commitment to peace, justice and internal party discipline, urging members and supporters to remain focused on the party’s vision for the state and the country.
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