The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has moved ahead with preparations for its national convention, appointing key figures to oversee the process despite objections from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) regarding the party’s leadership.
A 22-member National Convention Central Coordination Committee (NCCCC) has been constituted, with former Cross River State Governor, Senator Liyel Imoke, serving as chairman. Former Sokoto State Governor, Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, will act as vice chairman, while Dr. Ajuji Ahmed takes on the role of secretary.
The central committee will be supported by 339 members spread across 11 standing committees, subject to any last-minute adjustments. Notable members include former Imo State Governor Emeka Ihedioha, retired Commissioner of Police Tajudeen Bakare, Aminu Abubakar Gwarzo, Emeka Nwajuba, and Solomon Lalong, among others.
Among the sub-committees, Olumide Akpata is set to chair the Legal and Convention Processes Committee, with Lilian Oraogbu as vice chairman and Chille Wanger Igbawua as secretary. Senator Victor Umeh will head the Programmes and Events Committee, while Dr. Tony Nwoye will oversee the Medical Committee.
Other appointments include Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe as chairman of the Entertainment Committee, Senator Gilbert Nnaji for Protocol, Senator Mohammed Ogoshi for Welfare, and Afam Ogene for New Media. Senator Ireti Kingibe will lead the Delegates and Accreditation Committee, while Senator Austin Ibrahim heads Finance. Media and Publicity will be overseen by Senator Lawal Adamu Usman, Venue by Senator Binos Yaroe, and Security by retired AVM Suleiman Adamu.
Despite INEC’s stance, the faction led by Senator David Mark has reaffirmed its decision to proceed with the convention as scheduled. The party has accused the electoral commission of bias and called for the resignation of its leadership, alleging actions that could undermine democratic processes and weaken opposition parties.
The ADC also argued that INEC lacks the constitutional authority to independently interpret court rulings. In response to the dispute, the party’s National Working Committee, led by David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola, has filed a suit seeking to overturn INEC’s position and restore its leadership status on the commission’s official portal.
The party has fixed next Tuesday for the convention and has already begun preliminary activities ahead of the event.
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