Abia ADC congress dispute clarified as the party denies organising scheduled congresses and cites court ruling and INEC directive
The Abia State chapter of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, on Monday in Umuahia, announced that it is not organising the Ward, Local Government and State congresses scheduled to hold between 7th and 14th April 2026, citing ongoing legal and administrative developments affecting the party’s internal structure.
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The clarification was contained in a message communicated to the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, party members, ward and local government executives, state leadership and members of the public.
The Abia ADC congress dispute was formally addressed in a statement signed by the State Chairman, Mr Don Norman Obinna.
Mr Obinna explained that the decision aligns with the position of the Court of Appeal, which upheld the status quo ante bellum in a ruling that has influenced the current administrative standing of the party at the national level.
He noted that the ruling contributed to INEC removing the David Mark led National Working Committee from its official website.
He further stated that INEC, in compliance with the court’s decision, directed state officers of the ADC not to supervise or participate in the proposed state congresses and national convention.
According to him, these developments reinforce the party’s position regarding the suspension of the scheduled internal processes.
Mr Obinna affirmed that the tenure of the existing Ward, Local Government and State Executive in Abia State remains valid and continues to be in effect.
He urged members of the party to remain calm and maintain focus while the situation is being addressed through appropriate channels.
In his remarks, the chairman encouraged party stakeholders to promote unity and avoid actions that could disrupt peace within their respective areas.
He emphasised that efforts are ongoing to stabilise and revitalise the party structure in the state, describing the process as part of broader measures to restore normalcy.
The Abia ADC congress dispute underscores ongoing internal adjustments within the party as it navigates legal directives and electoral guidelines.
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The leadership assured members that further updates will be communicated as developments unfold.
