ADC South-South Denies Endorsing Presidential Aspirant

The South-South zonal leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has denied reports alleging that it endorsed a presidential aspirant at its recent zonal meeting, describing the claims as misleading and politically motivated.

In a statement issued by the South-South Zonal Publicity Secretary, Mabel Oboh, the leadership clarified that no endorsement was made at the meeting held on February 27.

The clarification followed media reports suggesting that leaders of the party in the South-South region, alongside the party’s national leader, John Odigie-Oyegun, had expressed support for a presidential contender during the gathering.

According to the statement, the meeting took place at Odigie-Oyegun’s residence and was attended by party leaders and stakeholders from Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo and Rivers states. It was convened to strengthen internal structures, deepen grassroots mobilisation and enhance regional coordination ahead of forthcoming political activities.

Oboh stated that discussions centred on party unity and positioning the ADC as a credible alternative capable of forming the next government. Participants, she said, emphasised internal democracy, inclusiveness and the need to avoid actions capable of creating unnecessary divisions within the party.

She further disclosed that former Rivers State governor and presidential aspirant, Rotimi Amaechi, attended the meeting to formally inform regional leaders of his intention to seek the party’s presidential ticket. The visit, she explained, was a courtesy call in line with internal consultation processes.

In his remarks, Odigie-Oyegun reportedly acknowledged the consultation, noting that aspirants are entitled to engage party stakeholders. However, the zonal leadership maintained that no motion, resolution or decision was taken regarding the endorsement of any aspirant.

The statement also addressed a video clip circulating online, which it said had been taken out of context and cited in some reports as evidence of endorsement. According to the zone, the clip merely captured expressions of appreciation for due process and respect for party leadership and did not amount to an endorsement.

Reaffirming its commitment to constitutional procedures, the South-South leadership emphasised that the authority to nominate candidates rests with the party’s constitutionally recognised organs and ultimately with members through democratic processes.

Describing the endorsement claims as misinformation, the zonal leadership urged party members and the public to disregard what it termed inaccurate narratives, reiterating that its priority remains unity, discipline and the strengthening of party structures across the region.