The Cross River State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly condemned what it describes as an attempt by non-members and external forces to “hijack” the party’s administrative structure.
The party leadership, speaking during a press briefing in Calabar on Tuesday, insisted that the state chapter remains united and operates strictly under the recognized leadership of the State Chairman, Dr. John Oga.
Addressing journalists on behalf of the chairman, the Vice Chairman for the Central Senatorial District, Dr. McFarlane Ejah, expressed concern over recent unauthorized gatherings organized by individuals claiming to represent the party.
The controversy stems from the planned inauguration of a “Membership Mobilization, Registration, and Revalidation Committee” intended to cover all 18 local government areas. Dr. Ejah clarified that this committee was created without the knowledge or consent of the state leadership.
“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,” Dr. Ejah stated. “Even in its alien status, the committee has refused to visit or recognize the state leadership.”
He further alleged that the move was a “calculated attempt” by individuals to seize control of the party for personal gain, challenging the conveners to step out of the shadows and identify themselves.
In a bid to prevent a breakdown of law and order, the ADC leadership confirmed it has petitioned the Commissioner of Police regarding a meeting scheduled to take place at the Ascot Event Centre in Calabar.
“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,” the representative noted. He added that while the convener was invited for questioning by the police, they allegedly refused to cancel the event, citing “resources already committed.”
Dismissing rumors that the ruling party was behind the internal friction, Dr. McFarlane Ejah, a party member, described such claims as “baseless.”
“The ruling party has nothing to do with ADC. We approached the police simply to maintain peace. Anyone suggesting otherwise is only displaying ignorance,” he said.
The leadership also took the opportunity to contrast the current “tyrannical” attempts at control with the conduct of prominent members like former Governor Donald Duke. The party praised Duke for following due process when he joined the party by registering at the ward level and respecting the existing hierarchy.
“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,” Dr. Ejah remarked.
Despite the internal distractions, the ADC maintains that it is focused on the future. The leadership confirmed that the party is already strategically positioning itself for the 2027 general elections.
“ADC is prepared for elections from the ward to all levels. We are interested in presenting credible candidates who will contribute to democratic development in Nigeria and in Cross River State,” the party stated.
The briefing concluded with a reaffirmation of the party’s commitment to internal discipline and “people-centric development,” urging loyal members to remain steadfast against “impunity and imposition.”
