Ex-ADC Governorship Candidate Resigns Over Party Crisis

The 2023 governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Rivers State, Tonte Ibraye, has resigned from the party over its internal leadership crisis and concerns about the credibility of its 2027 electoral processes.

Ibraye announced his resignation in a letter dated September 24, 2026, addressed to the ADC Ward Chairman in Degema Ward 16, Bille.

The former governorship candidate said recent developments within the party had made it difficult for him to continue as a member despite his previous commitment to the growth of the ADC and its principles of internal democracy, fairness and respect for established party structures.

He raised concerns over attempts by some newly admitted members to take control of existing party structures and replace serving executives in different parts of the country.

Ibraye also pointed to the leadership dispute involving the faction led by David Mark, saying the disagreement had continued to affect the party’s structures and electoral processes while legal issues surrounding the leadership remained unresolved.

He questioned the credibility of candidates who may emerge from processes conducted under disputed party structures, arguing that unresolved internal and legal disputes could create uncertainty around the legitimacy of the party’s candidates for the 2027 elections.

According to him, political movements seeking to gain public confidence need stable and clearly recognised internal structures. He maintained that the ADC could not effectively pursue its political objectives while questions remained over its leadership and candidate selection processes.

Ibraye also criticised the wider opposition’s approach to the 2027 elections. He said opposition parties had concentrated heavily on efforts to remove President Bola Tinubu from office without adequately explaining to Nigerians how they intended to govern differently or address the country’s challenges.

He argued that Nigerians should be presented with clear policy alternatives and practical plans for improving living conditions rather than political campaigns centred mainly on changing the government.

The former ADC candidate said the combination of the party’s internal disagreements and the broader opposition strategy had influenced his decision to leave the organisation.

Following his resignation, Ibraye said he would consult his supporters, political associates and political leaders across the 23 local government areas of Rivers State before deciding on his next political move.

He thanked ADC members and supporters with whom he had worked over the years and said his departure would not affect his commitment to the development of Rivers State and Nigeria.

Ibraye also said he remained committed to accountable and people-centred leadership despite his decision to leave the party.