The South-South Region Vice-Chair of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) Festus Igbinoba has reiterated Hon. Johnny Tovie Derek, who served as the formally recognized ADC chair of Bayelsa State, dismissed the ongoing speculation that leadership was hit was unfounded and misleading.
In a statement issued on Friday, Igbinoba described misinformation as part of a deliberate campaign by political actors, some of whom are operating within the government structure to undermine the growing unity within the party.
He warned that these players are deploying national resources to weaken ADCs rather than focusing on providing good governance and fulfilling the mandate given by the people of Bayelsa State.
“The African Democratic Congress is aware that some people are working to build activities of disunity within the party. Their actions are driven by concerns about our growing popularity and strong grassroots presence in Belsal and throughout Nigeria,” said Igbinoba.
He reiterated the honor. Johnny Tovie Derek was effectively elected and remains the only recognized ADC chairman in Bayelsa.
“The leadership of the ADC has adopted another dispute resolution (ADR) mechanism to resolve internal discrepancies in the national chapter. Through this process, Johnny Tovie Derek was rightfully restored and reaffirmed as state president. Any claim to the contrary is unfounded and unauthorized,” the statement said.
Iginoba Province also pointed to judicial precedents and noted that the Supreme Court of Nigeria has been ruling that the choice of internal party leaders and officials is beyond the jurisdiction of the conventional court.
“As Vice President of the State (South), I visited Bayelsa to chair a stakeholder meeting and the leaders of Johnny Tovie Derek were unanimously reiterated. Therefore, we urge the public, relevant authorities, all parties to the ADC’s leadership in Bayelsa State only to the leaders of Bayelsa State.
He further called on the governor to urgently curb those who are using their disposal to undermine the ADC and undermine the national democratic process.
Igbinoba concluded: “We believe that Governor Diri means good to the country and has shown openness and democratic maturity. Therefore, it is important that those who counteract this spirit through weapons of national resources and institutional weapons that fight ADCs are called for order.”
The ADC reiterated its determination to remain focused, united and ready to provide Bielsa people with a people-centered alternative.
