The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Edo State is facing a severe leadership crisis, with a faction of the party announcing the suspension of eleven prominent members, including two former governors and two former senators.
The move throws the party into deeper turmoil and raises questions about its stability in the state.
Among those suspended are former governors Chief John Odigie Oyegun and Prof. Osareimen Osunbor, as well as former senators Yisa Braimah (Edo North) and Ehigie Uzamere (Edo South). The other suspended members include Nosa Ehima, former chairman of Oredo local government, Sylvester Ewanehi, a former state commissioner, Tony Alile, the newly elected state chairman of the party, Jafaru Sumaila, Stella Alli, Igieogbe Asemota, and Christopher Ojeikere, the state publicity secretary.
According to a statement signed by Kennedy Odion, who identified himself as the factional state chairman, the suspensions were decided at a State Executive Committee meeting. The affected individuals are accused of a range of offenses, including insubordination, anti-party activities, refusal to comply with lawful party directives, and unauthorized factionalization.
Odion’s statement alleges that the suspended members engaged in actions capable of causing disaffection, disorder, and disruption within the ADC structure. He further accused them of participating in unauthorized groups or caucuses not recognized by the party’s constitution.
The suspensions carry immediate consequences. The affected members are barred from attending party meetings, participating in activities, or making decisions on behalf of the ADC. They are also prohibited from representing the party in any official or unofficial capacity and must cease identifying themselves as officers or agents of the party. Odion’s statement directed all party organs and structures to deny recognition and operational access to the suspended members.
The ADC faction claims it will formally communicate the allegations against each member in writing, adhering to Article 15(B) of the party’s constitution and principles of natural justice. The State Disciplinary Committee will notify each member of the hearing details, granting them the right to present a defense, be represented by counsel, and call witnesses. The proceedings are expected to conclude within the constitutionally prescribed timeline.
The suspended members retain the right to appeal the decision within 14 days of receiving the notice, as stipulated in Article 15(D). Appeals will be determined within 21 days by the appropriate higher organ of the party.
Odion has mandated all Local Government Area (LGA) and Ward Executives, along with affiliated structures, to strictly comply with the suspension directive and refrain from recognizing or engaging with the suspended members in party affairs. Any breaches of the directive must be reported to the State EXCO immediately. The suspension is effective immediately from the date of issuance of the statement.
The unfolding crisis within the Edo State ADC raises serious questions about the party’s cohesion and its prospects in future elections. The suspensions mark a significant escalation of internal conflicts and could have far-reaching consequences for the party’s structure and influence in the state.
