The African Democratic Congress in Rivers State has forged ahead with preparations for its congresses, brushing aside the intensifying leadership crisis rocking the party at the national level.
In what appears to be a bold step to sustain internal activities, the state chapter unveiled plans for the screening of aspirants vying for positions across various tiers of the party structure.
A statement released on Tuesday by the State Organising Secretary, Tony Dagony, urged all interested members to comply with the outlined screening arrangements ahead of the congresses.
The party directed aspirants contesting state positions to report at the state secretariat, while those seeking offices at the local government and ward levels are to appear at their respective council and ward offices.
The screening exercise is scheduled to hold on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.
The move comes against the backdrop of a lingering internal dispute that has plunged the party into uncertainty ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The crisis has split the ADC into multiple factions, notably those aligned with former Senate President, David Mark, and factional leader, Nafiu Bala Gombe, both of whom continue to assert control over the party’s leadership.
Compounding the situation, the Independent National Electoral Commission has reportedly removed the party from its official portal and is yet to recognise any of the contending factions.
Adding to the uncertainty, another group led by the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Dumebi Kachikwu, has indicated plans to convene a national convention and set up an interim leadership to manage the party’s affairs.
Despite the widening divisions at the top, the Rivers chapter’s decision to continue with its congress timetable underscores an effort to preserve its grassroots structure and maintain political relevance amid the ongoing crisis.
