The South-South Zonal Leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has rejected reports suggesting that its national leader, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, and other regional leaders endorsed former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi for the presidency.
In a statement on Saturday, the South-South Zonal Publicity Secretary, Mabel Oboh, described the reports as “misleading, undemocratic, and a troubling example of how selective narratives can distort political reality.” She clarified that a February 27 meeting at Oyegun’s residence in Benin brought together party elders, senior stakeholders, and state representatives from Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, and Rivers States.
Oboh said the meeting was convened to strengthen internal cohesion, deepen grassroots mobilisation, and strategically position the party for future elections. She stressed that the gathering was composed of experienced political leaders with decades of governance and party administration experience, making it “both inaccurate and illogical” to claim they would bypass constitutional processes for an informal endorsement.
During the session, Amaechi reportedly informed regional leaders of his intention to seek the party’s presidential ticket. Oboh emphasised that this was a consultation, not an endorsement, adding, “Consultation is not endorsement, and courtesy is not coronation.” She noted that no motion, resolution, vote, or consensus occurred at any point to back any aspirant.
Highlighting Chief Oyegun’s political track record as a former national chairman and advocate of constitutional order, Oboh said it is “inconceivable” that he would compromise party democratic structures. She also criticised media houses for publishing the narrative without proper verification, warning that misinformation can undermine democratic processes, fuel intra-party tension, and erode public confidence.
Oboh reaffirmed that the ADC remains committed to internal democracy, with the power to nominate and elect candidates resting solely with the party’s recognised organs and members. She concluded by reiterating the unity of the South-South bloc and that the meeting’s purpose was party consolidation and growth, not political alignment.
“No endorsement took place. Any narrative suggesting otherwise is false and should be disregarded,” she said.
