ADC NWC, C/River chapter clash over suspension of vice chair

The National Working Committee (NWC) of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the party’s Cross River State chapter have disagreed over the suspension of the National Vice Chairman (South-South), Dr Usani Uguru Usani, over alleged misconduct. Reports emerged on Monday that the Cross River State Working Committee (SWC) suspended Dr Usani after a meeting held […]

The National Working Committee (NWC) of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the party’s Cross River State chapter have disagreed over the suspension of the National Vice Chairman (South-South), Dr Usani Uguru Usani, over alleged misconduct.

Reports emerged on Monday that the Cross River State Working Committee (SWC) suspended Dr Usani after a meeting held on October 15.

Reacting to the development, ADC National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, told Daily Trust that the state chapter had no constitutional authority to suspend any member of the party’s NWC.

“No, the state does not have the power to suspend any NWC member. What they did is unconstitutional, and the party will address the issue accordingly,” Abdullahi said.

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However, in a statement signed by Hon. James Otudor, the Cross River State Publicity Secretary, the state chapter insisted that Dr Usani’s recent conduct was inconsistent with the ADC constitution. The SWC said it deliberated extensively on several petitions accusing him of anti-party activities, insubordination, and acts capable of undermining the party’s image and cohesion before deciding on the suspension.

“In accordance with the party’s constitution and disciplinary procedures, Dr Usani’s suspension will remain in effect pending the outcome of a formal investigation by the relevant party organs,” the statement said.

Efforts to reach Dr Usani for comments were unsuccessful at press time.

Meanwhile, the Cross River ADC also raised concerns over the failure of some opposition coalition leaders to register formally with the party ahead of the 2027 general elections. It gave them until Saturday, October 25, to regularise their membership or risk exclusion.

The statement noted that several coalition leaders who had attended ADC strategy meetings had since accepted leadership roles in their former political parties.

While the party did not mention any individual by name, a former governor of the state, Senator Liyel Imoke, is among the leaders of the coalition that adopted the ADC, though it remains unclear whether he has formally registered as a member of the party.

“The ADC will not tolerate dual membership or allow its platform to be used by individuals pursuing multiple partisan interests,” the statement warned.

The SWC further called on the national leadership to review the appointment of Ms Jackie Wayas as Deputy National Publicity Secretary, saying her appointment was made without adequate consultation.