Ebonyi ADC Successfully Conducts Peaceful Wards and Local Government Congresses
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Ebonyi State has successfully concluded its wards and local government congresses, with state leadership praising the exercise as remarkably peaceful and well-organized. The congresses, held across all 13 local government areas, 171 wards, and 2,975 polling units in the state, were described by party officials as a significant milestone in the party's history.
Leadership Commends Impressive Turnout and Peaceful Conduct
Dr. Jennifer Nwafor, the Ebonyi State Chairman of the ADC, addressed journalists after the exercise, expressing great satisfaction with the turnout and the absolute peace that characterized the proceedings. "I am very excited about the absolute peace witnessed throughout the congresses," Dr. Nwafor stated, commending party members for their active participation and maturity.
She emphasized that congress committees were given complete autonomy to conduct the elections, and the entire ADC membership in the state expressed satisfaction with the process. Dr. Nwafor urged party supporters to remain committed, highlighting that the congress would strengthen the party's grassroots structure in preparation for future electoral cycles.
Compliance with Electoral Guidelines and Security Monitoring
Dr. Nwafor confirmed that the party fully complied with the provisions of the Electoral Act by notifying the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) about the exercise. She also noted that security agencies were present to monitor the process, ensuring a secure environment for all participants.
Engr. Basil Imoke, the State Secretary for Electoral Matters and INEC Liaison Officer, echoed these sentiments, describing the turnout as high in the areas he monitored. He praised the massive participation and peaceful conduct of party members throughout the congresses.
Commitment to Internal Democracy and Transparent Processes
Uche Onyeagucha, Chairman of the Ebonyi State ADC Congress Committee, announced that the party would not adopt the traditional delegates system for candidate selection. Instead, candidates would emerge through either consensus or direct primaries. "We will not be using national delegates. Candidates will emerge either through consensus or direct primaries. We assure members of a transparent process," Onyeagucha declared.
He explained that this decision was aimed at deepening internal democracy and promoting inclusiveness within the party. Barrister Sunday Udedibia, Secretary of the State Congress Committee, reinforced this commitment, stating, "Our aim is to ensure that we deliver on the mandate given to us and move the party forward."
Consensus Elections and Re-elected Officials
In several parts of the state, officials were elected through consensus, reflecting the party's emphasis on unity and cooperation. In Ezza North Local Government Area, Oshim Ekuma was re-elected as chairman, while in Okposi Ward, Chika Igwe and Peace Nwafor were returned to their positions.
In Ekka Ward, Anayo Nwankwo, who was re-elected as chairman, attributed the peaceful conduct of the exercise to the adoption of consensus. This approach, he noted, fostered harmony and minimized conflicts during the congresses.
The successful conduct of these congresses marks a pivotal moment for the ADC in Ebonyi State, as it seeks to consolidate its political presence and prepare for upcoming electoral challenges. The party's leadership remains optimistic about its role in shaping the political landscape of the state.
