ADC South-South disowns report of Amaechi endorsement

The South-South leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has dismissed reports that it endorsed former Rivers State governor, Rotimi Amaechi, for the presidency.

In a statement issued on Saturday by the South-South Zonal Publicity Secretary, Mabel Oboh, the leadership said no endorsement was made at the February 27 meeting held at the residence of former Edo State governor and ADC chieftain, John Odigie-Oyegun.

The meeting was attended by party elders, senior stakeholders and representatives from Akwa Ibom State, Bayelsa State, Cross River State, Delta State, Edo State and Rivers State, with discussions centred on strengthening internal cohesion, deepening grassroots mobilisation and positioning the party for future elections.

Oboh clarified that while Amaechi informed leaders from the zone of his intention to seek the party’s presidential ticket, the consultation did not translate into an endorsement. She emphasised that no motion was moved, no resolution adopted and no vote taken in support of any aspirant.

“Consultation is not endorsement, and courtesy is not coronation. At no time before, during or after the meeting was any resolution passed backing any aspirant. The power to nominate candidates rests with the constitutionally recognised organs of the party and its members, not a handful of leaders at a zonal gathering,” she said.

The spokesperson added that it would be inconsistent with Odigie-Oyegun’s political history to undermine due process, noting his longstanding advocacy for internal democracy and institutional discipline.

She also cautioned media organisations against publishing unverified claims, warning that inaccurate reporting could create unnecessary tension and distort democratic processes.

Oboh reaffirmed that the South-South leadership remains united and committed to due process, urging the public to disregard claims of any endorsement.