The African Democratic Congress in Edo State has plunged deeper into internal crisis following the emergence of a new state executive led by Tony Alike.
The announcement was made by Sem Andrew Uchendu, who represented the party’s national secretariat. According to him, the congress that produced the new leadership was conducted after days of consultations and was based on a consensus arrangement agreed upon by party stakeholders in the state.
However, the development has sparked confusion within the party, as a member of the National Executive Committee, Rowland Owie, had earlier announced that Nosa Ehima was elected as the state chairman. This conflicting claim has further exposed divisions within the party’s ranks.
Adding to the controversy, the incumbent chairman, Kennedy Odion, whose tenure is expected to end on May 19, stated that he was unaware of any congress taking place in the state.
Uchendu maintained that he personally supervised the exercise across all levels, including ward, local government, and state, emphasizing that party leaders opted for a consensus approach. He noted that the process had the backing of key stakeholders, including John Odigie Oyegun.
Speaking after his emergence, Alike pledged to unite aggrieved members and strengthen the party ahead of upcoming elections. He revealed plans to begin consultations with party leaders, starting with visits to prominent figures, in a bid to foster unity.
Alike also hinted at unveiling policy directions in the coming weeks, stressing the need for Nigerians to rally behind the opposition as an alternative to current governance.
The unfolding leadership dispute signals ongoing inility within the ADC in Edo State, raising concerns about the party’s preparedness for future electoral contests.
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