Dare Babalola
A faction of the African Democratic Congress, headed by National Chairman Nafiu Gombe, has dissociated itself from Peter Obi’s alleged switch to the party, denying any involvement in the former Labour Party candidate’s registration at the Enugu zonal office.
The faction, which claims to be the authentic national leadership of the ADC, condemned the move, stating that it violates the party’s constitution and established membership procedures.
Recall that Obi announced his defection to the ADC at an event held at the Nike Lake Resort in Enugu State on Wednesday.
At the event, the former Anambra State governor called on Nigerians and opposition forces to unite under a broad coalition to “rescue Nigeria from poverty, disunity and democratic decline.”
In a New Year message issued in Abuja, Gombe stressed that it became important for them to clarify misleading information circulating in the public domain over the party’s membership registration process.
He said the ADC is founded on order, discipline and strict adherence to its constitution, adding that its membership registration process is clearly defined.
“It has come to our attention that a certain Mr Peter Obi was reportedly registered at a party zonal office in Enugu. The NWC wishes to categorically state that this action does not align with the constitutional and stipulated procedures for membership registration into the African Democratic Congress.
“The process of registering with the ADC is clearly outlined as follows: ward registration. Prospective members must register at their respective ward levels within their state of origin or residence. This is the primary and constitutionally recognised point of entry.
“On documentation and issuance of membership card, upon successful registration at the ward level, a validated party membership card is issued.”
The party said its constitution does not allow registration at zonal or national offices.
He added, “The party’s constitution does not provide for the registration of individuals at zonal or national offices outside of their designated wards. Any registration carried out contrary to this provision is considered irregular and invalid.
“Therefore, the office of the national chairman distances the original, constitutionally-governed ADC from the reported registration of Mr Peter Obi at the Enugu Zonal office. The party is investigating this breach of due process.”
The leadership, therefore, urged party supporters and the general public to disregard claims suggesting alternative channels for party registration, noting that ward-level registration remains the only recognised method.
