Ondo ADC Leaders Demand New Executive Committee Amid Unity Crisis
A powerful coalition of leaders and chieftains within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Ondo State has issued a strong demand for the immediate constitution of a new State Executive Committee. This call comes amid serious allegations of a lack of unity and cohesion within the party's current structure, threatening its stability as political activities for 2027 approach.
Coalition Press Conference in Akure
During a press briefing held in Akure, the state capital, the coalition representing four major blocs within the party made their position clear. They specifically called for the formation of a new state executive committee under the leadership of Sola Ebiwonjumi, whom they described as capable of restoring order and unity to the troubled political organization.
The coalition comprises several significant groups: the PDP group led by Prof. Bode Ayorinde, the Labour Party/Obedient Movement under Prof. Biodun Ambode, the ADC Aborigines headed by Barr. Nejo Myson, and the Omoluabi Group led by Hon. Femi Johnson. Together, these factions represent what they describe as the progressive-minded majority within the ADC structure in Ondo State.
Allegations Against Current Leadership
According to coalition spokespersons, the current chairman's leadership style has actively fostered disunity within the party. They accused the leadership of abandoning fundamental principles of inclusivity and collective decision-making that are essential for any democratic political organization.
Sola Ebiwonjumi, who was flanked by other party leaders during the press briefing, emphasized that the current crisis stems from what he described as the domineering influence of a specific leader within the party structure. He claimed this individual has consistently frustrated attempts at meaningful dialogue and equitable power-sharing among different factions.
"This persistent imposition and disregard for collective decisions have made meaningful progress impossible," Ebiwonjumi stated during the briefing. "After exhausting all avenues for reconciliation, consultation, and internal resolution, we are left with no viable alternative."
Specific Demands and Proposed Solutions
The coalition presented several specific demands during their announcement:
- Immediate removal of current state chairman Barr. Wole Ademoyegun, whose leadership they claim has failed to ensure fairness, inclusiveness, and cohesion within the party.
- Urgent constitution of a new, broad-based State Executive Committee under the leadership of Sola Ebiwonjumi that would work in conjunction with all 18 local government chairmen and ward chairmen across the state.
- A firm commitment to rebuilding the party on principles of justice, equity, transparency, and collective leadership ahead of forthcoming congress activities.
Ebiwonjumi stressed that this decision was not taken lightly but was necessary to rescue the party from what he described as unilateral control and to restore confidence among all members. "We remain resolute in our determination to ensure that the ADC in Ondo State becomes a true platform for democratic participation, fairness, and progress," he declared.
Party Structure and National Awareness
Addressing concerns about potential factionalism, coalition representatives insisted that there is only one legitimate party structure in Ondo State. They claimed that the person responsible for creating the crisis has been suspended from the party, effectively removing the source of discord.
"The national body is aware; every authority is aware," stated one coalition member. "We are saying 'business,' and politics is business, and we must do it business-wise for posterity and for us to move forward. So they are aware."
The coalition emphasized that their actions are aimed at strengthening the party ahead of the 2027 political cycle, ensuring that the ADC remains a viable platform for democratic participation in Ondo State. They expressed confidence that their demands reflect the will of the majority of party members who seek genuine reform and renewed unity within the political organization.
