Abia ADC Cites Appeal Court Ruling, Disowns ‘Unauthorized Congress’

The Abia State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has distanced itself from a purported “ADC Congress” reportedly conducted by a group of individuals in the state, describing the exercise as illegitimate and lacking any official backing.

In a statement signed by the State Publicity Secretary, Pastor Uduma Amah, and co-signed by the Chairman of Chairmen, Hon. Nwauhiara Miracle, on behalf of Local Government Chairmen, the party leadership, under Hon. Deacon Iyke Nwoke, said the gathering was merely an expression of individuals’ freedom of assembly and association, and not a recognized party activity.

The party leadership further described those involved as “political itinerants,” alleging that they were acting on behalf of undisclosed sponsors to advance personal ambitions.
According to the statement, the ADC in Abia State, as well as at the national level, has not conducted any congress, stressing that any claim to the contrary is misleading and should be disregarded.

The party anchored its position on a ruling by the Court of Appeal in Abuja, which, it said, ordered a return to the status quo pending the determination of a substantive suit before the Federal High Court. It also referenced the delisting of a factional National Working Committee (NWC) led by Senator David Mark by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

While acknowledging that the court order may not favour the party’s immediate interests, the Abia ADC reaffirmed its commitment to due process and the rule of law, expressing optimism that the pending legal matter would be resolved expeditiously.
The statement warned prospective candidates to steer clear of what it termed “unlawful activities” allegedly orchestrated by Barrister Kanu O. Kanu and others, cautioning that association with such actions would be at their own risk, as the party would not be liable for any consequences.

Party faithful were urged to remain loyal and steadfast, with assurances that a legitimate and transparent congress would be conducted in due course, allowing full participation of eligible members.

For clarity, the party maintained that all current Local Government Chairmen of the ADC in Abia State remain in their positions until a duly recognized congress is held.