Enugu ADC Divided Over Claims Of Candidate Imposition

A fresh crisis is tearing through the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Enugu State, with allegations that former governor Okwesilieze Nwodo, is trying to force a preferred candidate on the party’s leadership against the will of stakeholders.

A chieftain of the party, Comrade Chika Idoko, made the claims public during a media briefing, openly challenging what he called a brazen hijack of the ADC for personal and political interests.

“This is a desperate attempt to compromise the credibility of our party and frustrate the genuine will of stakeholders,” Idoko said.

He revealed that Nwodo’s preferred candidate, Augustine Akubue, is currently the subject of a formal petition before the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

According to Idoko, the petition involves allegations of false claims to a professorial title, a fictitious inaugural lecture, and conduct likely to mislead the public.

“How can a party that seeks public trust be led by someone facing allegations bordering on impersonation and forgery?” Idoko asked.

He further accused Nwodo of disregarding due process, alleging that external political influences linked to the APC are being masked under the political influence of Peter Obi.

Idoko threw his weight behind Major General Chris Owushi Eze (Rtd), whom he described as the June 12 unsung hero and the legitimate chairman of the ADC in Enugu State.

“General Chris Eze emerged through a just-concluded state congress conducted in line with party procedures and democratic principles.

“He earned his mandate through performance, trust, tested leadership, and strong grassroots support, not through imposition,” Idoko said.

He directed a stern warning to the ADC National Organizing Secretary, the National Working Committee, and the party’s national leadership.

“Do not attempt to legitimise any imposed leadership arrangement. Enugu ADC has spoken through a legitimate internal process. The choice of Major General Chris Eze reflects the true will of party members across the state,” he cautioned.

Supporters of Chris Eze insist the opposition party must stand for transparency and internal democracy.

As tensions mount, many party members have rallied behind a popular slogan, insisting, “Enugu ADC is not for sale,” while the national leadership’s response to the growing crisis is anxiously awaited.