By Victor Nwegede, Abakaliki.
As Nigeria’s political atmosphere begins to stir ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Ebonyi State chairperson of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Dr. Jennifer Adibe-Nwafor, has delivered a firm political message to opposition figures seeking to align with her party: join officially, or don’t join at all.
In a weekend press interaction in Abakaliki, Dr. Adibe-Nwafor emphasized that while the ADC is welcoming new members and political groups seeking credible alternatives, the party will not tolerate shadowy defections or attempts to infiltrate its ranks through political shortcuts.
“Let it be clear: if you’re coming to the ADC, come through the front door,” she stated pointedly. “Register officially with us. Meet with the structure. Don’t sneak in to hijack or destabilize what we’ve built.”
The state ADC boss, a seasoned political organizer and loyalist of the party, reiterated that the recognized party structure in Ebonyi is under her leadership, as duly affirmed by the party’s national secretariat. She cautioned against parallel structures or unnamed coalitions claiming affiliation without official registration.
Amid recent waves of realignments from PDP, APC, SDP, and Labour Party stalwarts, Dr. Adibe-Nwafor revealed that the ADC has witnessed a surge of interest, but with it, also an increase in dubious political maneuvers.
“Some say they’ve joined the ADC, yet have not picked up our party card or spoken to the local or state executives. That’s not how credible coalitions are formed,” she declared. “We’re not a party for political hijackers. We are a party of structure, discipline, and strategic growth.”
The ADC leader extended an open hand to support groups and movements—including Obidients, Atiku loyalists, and other reform-driven political blocs—inviting them to collapse their structures into the ADC “not as guests, but as builders.”
“This is not campaign time. It is rebuilding season. To be relevant in 2027, you must help strengthen the party now. You don’t earn the ticket before joining the race,” she asserted.
Backing the position of the state chair, Comrade Charles Uzor, the ADC Chairman in Onicha LGA, reiterated that sincerity and discipline are non-negotiable values for anyone seeking a home in the ADC. He said the party is undergoing harmonization across all zones in Ebonyi, with the southern zone already concluded and the central and northern regions next in line.
“The ADC is no longer a fringe voice. We are a national movement. We are here to rescue Nigeria—restore order, security, and economic dignity,” Uzor stated.
He confirmed that many notable defectors have already joined the party, and more are expected, provided they follow due process. Party registration, he noted, is ongoing manually, while the national electronic platform is being upgraded due to technical glitches.
Both leaders emphasized that while the ADC remains inclusive and accommodating, its gates will remain closed to those who wish to infiltrate or manipulate its rising political momentum.
“There is room for everyone in ADC,” Dr. Adibe-Nwafor concluded, “but there is no space for shortcuts, sabotage, or self-serving schemes.”