Stakeholders of the African Democratic Congress in Kogi East have rejected the purported removal of the party’s Divisional Chairman in Ibaji Local Government Area, Hon. Samuel Onalo.
The stakeholders, in a statement issued on Thursday, accused a former Deputy Governor of Kogi State, Hon. Simon Achuba, of allegedly taking steps capable of undermining the party’s unity and electoral prospects in the state ahead of the forthcoming general elections.
The statement, signed by the Secretary of the ADC Ward Leaders Forum and party leader in Ejule Ojebe Ward, Hon. Daniel Ojata, described the purported removal of Onalo as illegal, high-handed and contrary to the established guidelines of the party.
Ojata maintained that the decision could not stand, alleging that Achuba lacked the authority to unilaterally alter the leadership structure of the party in Ibaji Local Government Area.
He said loyal members of the ADC in Ibaji would resist what he described as attempts to impose decisions without due consultation with relevant party organs and stakeholders.
The stakeholders consequently demanded the immediate withdrawal and nullification of all documents allegedly issued or signed by Achuba or his aides concerning the leadership of the ADC in Ibaji.
They further called on party members and supporters across the local government not to be discouraged by the development, assuring them that the recognised leadership structure of the party remained intact.
The stakeholders urged ADC members to remain calm and united, stressing that internal disagreements should be resolved in accordance with the party’s constitution, guidelines and established channels of authority.
