The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is experiencing internal conflicts over leadership in Imo State, particularly with former Governor Emeka Ihedioha’s recent defection to the party.
Ihedioha, a prominent political figure in the South East, has thrown his weight behind the ADC, boasting a strong political structure in Imo State with functional representation in all 305 electoral wards, 27 local government areas, and three senatorial zones.
Former Imo State Governor, Ihedioha has brought significant political muscle to the ADC, potentially boosting the party’s chances in the 2027 general elections.
As the interim national chairman of the ADC, Mark has been instrumental in rallying opposition leaders against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The ADC has attracted notable politicians, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, and former governors like Aminu Tambuwal and Nasir El-Rufai.
The ADC aims to provide a credible alternative to the APC-led government, with its coalition partners seeking to rescue Nigeria from its current challenges.
However, some critics question the party’s ideological leaning, accusing its leaders of being driven by desperation for power.
Despite the ADC’s growing momentum, observers have raised concerns about the coalition’s capacity to make an appreciable impact or succeed, citing the inordinate personal ambitions of its members.
Some notable figures, including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Rotimi Amaechi, have already declared interest in contesting, potentially creating tension within the coalition.
Ihedioha’s defection has strengthened the ADC’s presence in Imo State, with the former governor directing his Rebuild Imo Movement (RIM) leaders to mobilize support for the party across the state.
This development could significantly influence the political landscape in Imo and the South East region.
Another report states: “A former governor of Imo State, Emeka Ihedioha, former senator Athan Achonu, former Minister Emeka Nwajiuba and new political entrant, Chima Amadi, are said to be battling internally over the Coalition’s African Democratic Congress, ADC, apex leadership position of the party in the state.
The quadruplet are said to be eyeing the governorship ticket of the ADC for the November 2027 governorship election in Imo State.
While Ihedioha has openly declared his membership of the ADC, Nwajiuba, is said to be amongst the brains behind the Coalition of major opposition figures from the Labour Party and Peoples Democratic Party into the ADC.
Achonu is yet to publicly declare for the ADC but sources said that the ex-Senator had instructed the members of his Mezie Imo Political organization to move into the ADC.
Another source disclosed that Amadi will in the coming weeks declare for the ADC, a platform he will officially use to seek to become the governor of the state in his first attempt.