The African Democratic Congress (ADC), led by its National Chairman, Nafiu Bala Gombe, has disowned reports that former Anambra State Governor, Mr. Peter Obi, has defected to and registered as a member of the party in Enugu State.
In a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja, Gombe said the clarification became necessary following what he described as misleading information circulating in the public domain regarding the ADC’s membership registration process.
He stressed that the ADC is founded on the principles of order, discipline and strict adherence to its constitution, noting that the party’s registration procedure is clearly defined and leaves no room for ambiguity.
“The party distances itself from reports claiming that a certain Mr. Peter Obi was registered at the party’s zonal office in Enugu,” Gombe said, adding that such action contravenes the ADC’s constitution and established procedures.
According to him, “It has come to our attention that a certain Mr. Peter Obi was reportedly registered at a party zonal office in Enugu. The National Working Committee categorically states that this action does not align with the constitutional and stipulated procedures for membership registration into the African Democratic Congress.”
Gombe explained that membership of the ADC begins strictly at the ward level, which is the only constitutionally recognised point of entry into the party.
“The process of registering with the ADC is clearly outlined: prospective members must register at their respective ward levels within their state of origin or residence; complete official party forms with required documentation; and, upon successful registration, be issued a validated membership card,” he said.
While reaffirming the party’s openness to all Nigerians, the ADC chairman emphasised that such inclusiveness must be exercised strictly within the framework of the party’s laws and regulations.
He added that the ADC constitution does not recognise registration at zonal or national offices outside a member’s designated ward, stressing that any such registration is irregular and invalid.
“Therefore, the Office of the National Chairman distances the constitutionally governed ADC from the reported registration of Mr. Peter Obi at the Enugu zonal office. The party is investigating this breach of due process,” Gombe stated.
The ADC leadership urged prospective members, supporters and the general public to disregard claims suggesting alternative channels for party registration, reiterating that ward-level registration remains the only valid and recognised method.
“The ADC remains committed to providing a robust and credible platform for all Nigerians, but insists on operating strictly within the ambit of its constitution and regulations,” the statement concluded.
