Concerned leaders and stakeholders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Rivers State have distanced the party from a purported “Peace and Reconciliation Committee” reportedly constituted by some individuals claiming to act on behalf of the party in the state.
In a press statement issued on Tuesday, the stakeholders described the committee as unauthorized, insisting that those behind its formation lacked the constitutional authority to act on behalf of the party.
According to the statement, the ADC National Secretariat dissolved all executive committees of the party at the ward, local government, state, and zonal levels following the conclusion of the party primaries. The dissolution, it said, was part of a broader reorganization process expected to last 12 months and would be supervised by caretaker committees yet to be constituted.
The stakeholders emphasized that the dissolution effectively terminated all powers and privileges previously exercised by the affected executive committees.
“Consequently, no former officer, irrespective of previous designation or status, possesses the authority to issue directives, constitute committees, make appointments, convene official meetings, speak for the party or otherwise exercise powers reserved for duly constituted party organs,” the statement said.
They argued that the purported appointment of a Peace and Reconciliation Committee in Rivers State and plans for its inauguration lacked legal authority, constitutional backing, and institutional legitimacy.
Describing the move as “null, void, and of no effect whatsoever,” the stakeholders alleged that the action was intended to create confusion within the party.
They advised party members, the media, stakeholders, and the general public to disregard the announcement and any communication originating from dissolved party structures or individuals claiming authority under positions that no longer exist.
The statement reaffirmed the ADC’s commitment to due process, internal democracy, discipline, and the orderly reconstitution of its structures in line with the party’s constitution and directives from the National Secretariat.
It further stressed that any legitimate committee or administrative structure of the party would only be established through duly authorized channels and communicated through appropriate party organs.
The stakeholders also called on party members to remain united and focused on the ongoing rebuilding process, warning against attempts by unauthorized persons to promote factionalism or uncertainty within the party.
They maintained that the supremacy of the party’s constitution, the authority of the National Secretariat, and the integrity of the reorganization process would continue to be upheld.
