Ondo ADC Suspends Congresses Following INEC Directive On Party Crisis

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Ondo State has announced the suspension of its planned ward, local government, and state congresses in compliance with a directive from the Independent National Electoral Commission(INEC).

The decision was disclosed in a statement issued on Wednesday by the state chairman, Wole Ademoyegun, who explained that the move aligns with INEC’s instruction for political parties to maintain the status quo while ongoing disputes are being resolved.

The statement read, “The ADC hereby announces the immediate suspension of all previously scheduled Ward, Local Government Area, and State Congresses. This decision is taken in strict compliance with the directive of the Independent National Electoral Commission directing all concerned parties to maintain the status quo ante bellum.

“We reaffirm our unwavering respect for INEC as the constitutionally constituted regulatory authority for political parties and our firm commitment to due process and institutional order. Accordingly, all members and stakeholders of the party are hereby enjoined to remain calm, maintain unity, and exercise the highest level of discipline during this period.

“The party strongly advises against any form of activity that may contravene the directive of INEC or disrupt the peace and order within the party.”

The party also cautioned against unauthorised gatherings, noting that security agencies have been put on alert to prevent actions that could destabilise the party’s internal order.

“The ADC Ondo State Chapter remains committed to democratic principles, internal cohesion and proper political conduct. Further updates will be communicated in line with guidance from the appropriate regulatory authorities,” the statement concluded.

This development follows INEC’s recent decision to remove some national leaders of the party, including David Markand Rauf Aregbesola, from its official records in line with a court order directing the commission to preserve the status quo.

The ADC has been grappling with internal leadership disputes, including disagreements linked to the tenure of former National Chairman, Ralph Nwosu, which ended in August 2022.

Despite the ongoing crisis, the party has reaffirmed its intention to participate in the 2027 general elections.

“One thing I can guarantee is that we will contest the 2027 election on the ADC platform,” said the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi.