A support group loyal to former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi has rejected the outcome of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential primary in Imo State, describing the exercise as a sham. The group, known as the Movement for Amaechi's Presidency, alleged that the process was not a direct primary but a secret selection conducted in connivance with agents of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
Allegations of Irregularities
Led by Chigozie Alex, the group claimed that elections were not held in most wards across the state. Registered ADC members who turned out to vote were reportedly turned away due to the absence of officials, voting materials, and designated polling units. The group also alleged that their accredited agents were neither informed nor allowed access to the process, which they described as a secret selection conducted without adherence to the ADC constitution or the Electoral Act.
Atiku Declared Winner
Earlier on Tuesday, May 26, the ADC Imo chapter concluded its presidential primary across 305 wards, with Atiku Abubakar securing a decisive victory. Atiku polled 52,200 votes, while Amaechi garnered 7,659 votes and Mohammed Hayatu-Deen received 1,121 votes. Announcing the results in Owerri, Eko Atu, chairman of the ADC national presidential primaries electoral panel for Imo, described the exercise as peaceful, transparent, and well-coordinated. He commended party members for their orderly conduct and praised the state leadership under Professor James Okoroma for providing a conducive atmosphere.
Group's Stance
The Movement for Amaechi's Presidency insisted that the outcome was predetermined and called for a review. They maintained that the primary violated democratic principles and the party's constitution. Meanwhile, ADC officials have defended the process, stating that it reflected the party's commitment to credible internal elections.
This development comes amid broader political maneuvering within the ADC as the 2027 elections approach. The party has been at the center of leadership disputes, with Nafiu Bala-Gombe, a former deputy national chairman, seeking a change of judge in a case involving the party's leadership.
