The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has disowned a purported party meeting in Cross River State, describing it as illegal and unauthorised.
The party warned that attempts to hijack its structures would not be tolerated, reaffirming the authority of its recognised leaders and commitment to democratic procedures.
At a press briefing in Calabar, Dr. McFarlane Ejah, Vice Chairman of the ADC for the Central Senatorial District, stressed that the recent meeting and committee inauguration circulating online and in local communities had no official sanction. He clarified that the only recognised leadership in the state is under Ambassador Dr. John Oga, the duly elected State Chairman.
Dr. Ejah condemned the activities of a so-called Membership Mobilisation, Registration and Revalidation Committee, noting that the group had circulated membership lists and held meetings without approval from the state executive.
He described these actions as alien to the party’s constitution and warned that any individual or group attempting to override official structures would face consequences.
The situation escalated when security authorities intervened at a scheduled venue on Tuesday, preventing the unauthorised meeting from taking place. Mobile police cordoned off the site early in the morning, ensuring that party members and guests could not hold the gathering.
Following consultations with security officials, the party relocated its activities to the home of a senior member to avoid confrontation.
Dr. Ejah urged all members to remain calm and united. He emphasised that the ADC stands for people-centric development, respect for democratic norms, and accountability in governance, reiterating the party’s core principles and warning against impunity.
Party officials emphasised that only recognised leaders have the authority to organise official events, conduct membership registration, or carry out party business. The ADC stated that it would continue to uphold democratic processes across the state and ensure that its structures are not hijacked for personal or political interests.
