By Abubakar Yunusa
The National Working Committee and Board of Trustees of the African Democratic Congress have raised the alarm over alleged moves by some coalition members to tamper with the party’s constitution ahead of formally joining the party.
The party leadership described the действия as unacceptable, warning that such moves could create confusion, tension and disaffection within the party’s structure.
This was contained in a joint communiqué issued after a meeting of the NWC and BoT, signed by the Secretary of the Board of Trustees, Mr Rufus Akanmi.
The leadership cited provisions of the ADC constitution, particularly Article 8, which clearly spells out the lawful process for joining the party.
According to Akanmi, all membership applications must be processed through the Ward Executive where the applicant resides, with endorsement from the Ward Chairman.
He said any attempt to bypass this process amounts to a direct violation of the party’s constitution.
“The National Working Committee (NWC) and Board of Trustees (BoT) of the party noted with concern attempts by certain coalition members to alter the party’s constitution prior to joining,” Akanmi said.
“The party views such actions as unacceptable and warns against any efforts that may cause confusion or disaffection among members.”
He added that the alleged actions contravene Article 8 (1&2) of the ADC constitution, stressing that the party’s rules must be respected by all intending members.
The communiqué also referenced Article 9 (4) of the constitution, which states that to be eligible for national or zonal office, a member must have belonged to the party for at least two years and be up to date with membership dues.
Akanmi said the leadership interpreted the setting up of a constitutional review committee by some coalition members as “an attempt to hijack the party”, warning that such actions would not be tolerated.
The ADC leadership further advised individuals interested in contesting the 2027 general elections on the party’s platform to engage only with legitimate party structures.
Akanmi urged aspirants to liaise with recognised party leadership at ward, local government and state levels.
He also cautioned them to ignore any transition committees or parallel structures allegedly set up by coalition members or “illegitimate leaders”.
“They should seek guidance from the existing party structures at various levels,” he said.
In a related development, the party announced the postponement of its Ward, Local Government and State Congresses.
According to the communiqué, the decision was taken due to unforeseen circumstances beyond the party’s control.
The ADC leadership apologised for any inconvenience caused by the postponement and assured members and stakeholders that new dates would be communicated through official party channels.
The party reaffirmed its commitment to internal democracy, due process and strict adherence to its constitution as it prepares for future political activities.
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