Fatimah Otunsanya
The Ondo State chapter of the African Democratic Congress has suspended its planned ward, local government and state congresses following a directive by the Independent National Electoral Commission.
The party disclosed this in a statement issued on Wednesday by its state chairman, Wole Ademoyegun.
According to the statement, the decision was taken in compliance with INEC’s directive that political parties maintain the status quo pending the resolution of ongoing issues.
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 warned against any unauthorised gatherings, noting that security agencies had been alerted to prevent activities that could disrupt peace within the party.
“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.
The development follows a recent decision by INEC to delist some national leaders of the party, including David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola, from its records in compliance with a court order directing the commission to maintain the status quo.
The ADC has been enmeshed in internal disputes, including disagreements over the tenure of its former National Chairman, Ralph Nwosu, which ended in August 2022.
Despite the crisis, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, recently said it would participate in the 2027 general election.
“One thing I can guarantee is that we will contest the 2027 election on the ADC platform,” he said.
