The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the South-South was on Friday thrown into a crisis of credibility following a strong denial by its zonal leadership of reports that it had endorsed a former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, for the presidency.
The South-South Zonal Leadership of the party has issued a clear and unequivocal denial of reports claiming that its National Leader in the zone, former Governor John Odigie-Oyegun, and other regional leaders endorsed Amaechi.
Speaking on behalf of the zonal leadership, the South-South Zonal Publicity Secretary, Mabel Oboh, described the reports as “misleading, undemocratic, and a troubling example of how selective narratives can distort political reality.”
The controversy stems from a February 27 meeting held at Oyegun’s residence, which gathered respected party elders, senior stakeholders, and state representatives from Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, and Rivers States.
According to Oboh, the gathering was organised to strengthen internal cohesion, deepen grassroots mobilisation, and position the party strategically for future electoral contests, not to anoint a candidate.
“These were not casual attendees,” Oboh noted. “They were seasoned political leaders, individuals with decades of experience in governance, party administration, and democratic practice.
“To suggest that such a body would casually abandon constitutional process for an informal endorsement is both inaccurate and illogical.
“During the meeting, Amaechi formally informed regional leaders of his intention to seek the party’s presidential ticket, a move that is described as a respectful consultation with his geopolitical zone.
“Consultation is not endorsement, and courtesy is not coronation.
“Receiving a prominent son of the South-South who chose to formally brief his regional leaders cannot be twisted into a declaration of support.”
Oboh emphasised that at no time, before, during, or after the meeting, was any motion moved, resolution adopted, vote taken, or consensus reached to endorse any aspirants.
She further stressed that Chief Oyegun’s political history makes the allegation particularly implausible.
She said as a former national chairman of a ruling political party and a longstanding advocate of constitutional order within party systems, he understands the weight of process and institutional discipline.
“It is inconceivable that a leader of his pedigree would undermine the very democratic structures he has spent decades strengthening,” Oboh added.
The zonal spokesperson expressed disappointment that some media houses published the endorsement narrative without thorough verification, warning that such reporting carries broader implications.
“Misinformation in political reporting does not merely mislead the public; it risks undermining democratic processes, fueling unnecessary tension within parties, and eroding confidence in institutional procedures,” she said. “In a fragile political climate, responsible journalism is not optional; it is essential.”
She maintained that the ADC remains committed to internal democracy, noting that the power to nominate and elect candidates rests with constitutionally recognised organs of the party and ultimately with its members, not with a handful of leaders at a zonal consultation.
Reaffirming the unity of the South-South bloc, Oboh stated that the meeting’s true objective was structural consolidation and party growth, not premature political alignment.
“The elders of the South-South remain united, disciplined, and committed to due process,” she concluded. “No endorsement took place. Any narrative suggesting otherwise is false and should be disregarded.”
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