The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Rivers State has confirmed it will go ahead with its scheduled ward, local government, and state congresses, despite ongoing national-level litigations that have sparked protests in other parts of the country.
Speaking to journalists in Port Harcourt, the State Chairman, Leader Sampson, said the decision follows directives from the party’s national leadership under Senator David Mark. He emphasised that the Rivers State chapter is united and fully prepared for the upcoming congresses.
“We are acting on the directive of our national leadership, and we have the mandate to proceed with our congresses,” Sampson said.
Party executives from the state and local government areas gathered at the party secretariat to finalise preparations for the exercise, which will take place across more than six thousand units. The chairman stated that the party has complied with all legal and procedural requirements, including notifying the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) within the required timeframe.
Addressing concerns over ongoing litigations, Sampson insisted the Rivers State chapter is operating within the law. “There is no division within the ADC in Rivers State; we remain united at all levels under the leadership of Rt. Honourable Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi and Senator David Mark,” he said.
On the party’s absence from a recent bye-election in the state, Sampson accused INEC of deliberately excluding the ADC from the process. “That was a deliberate attempt by INEC to exclude us from the democratic process,” he said, warning that interference in the party’s affairs could undermine Nigeria’s democracy.
The Rivers ADC also criticised the federal administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, alleging efforts to weaken opposition parties. “The ADC remains a credible alternative, and we are committed to strengthening our structure across Rivers State,” Sampson added.
Party leaders from various local government areas assured members of a peaceful and credible process. The ward and local government congresses are scheduled for April 9, while the state congress is set for April 11.
