A team of mobile policemen in Calabar, Cross River State, on Tuesday, prevented the scheduled inauguration of the African Democratic Congress Membership Registration, Mobilisation, and Revalidation Committee.
The party condemned efforts by non-members to take over its structure, insisting it remains united under the leadership of its state chairman, Dr. John Oga.
The ADC had planned to inaugurate the Membership Mobilisation, Registration, and Revalidation Committee, chaired by Eko Alobo, on Monday at an Event Centre along Marian Road.
However, by 7 a.m., a specialized police unit had cordoned off the venue, barring party members from entering.
A source close to the security personnel revealed that the officers were acting on orders from above following a petition submitted by some party members.
Attempts to resolve the standoff were unsuccessful, even as top ADC leaders, including South South Zonal Vice Chairman Dr. Uguru Usani and Mr. Bassey Ewa, held a meeting with the Commissioner of Police.
The meeting venue was later moved to Usani’s residence, where large crowds have since gathered.
Party disowns ‘illegal’ meeting
Speaking to journalists in Calabar on behalf of the state chairman, Vice Chairman for the Central Senatorial District, Dr. Mcphalane Ejah, described the unauthorised activities as a troubling development orchestrated by individuals not recognised by the party.
Ejah also praised party members for their loyalty, reaffirming the ADC’s commitment to democratic principles and people-centred development.
He said, “As an opposition party, ADC in Cross River State is committed to people-centric development, placing the interests of the people at heart.
“We believe that the will of the people should prevail and be respected. We reject impunity and imposition and will not tolerate actions or attitudes that undermine the democratic will of the people.”
The party stressed that there is no faction within the ADC in Cross River State and that it operates strictly according to its constitution. It insisted that the only recognised leadership is headed by Dr. Oga.
The leadership dismissed the planned inauguration of the so-called Membership Mobilisation, Registration, and Revalidation Committee for the 18 local government areas, describing it as unknown and unrecognised by the state executive.
