The Kogi State Chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has dismissed claims that Hon. Leke Abejide, the House of Representatives member representing Yagba Federal Constituency, has been suspended from the party.
In a press statement issued on Saturday in Lokoja, the State Secretary of the party, John Adaji, described the alleged suspension as baseless, unconstitutional, and of no effect. He urged the public to disregard the report, emphasizing that due process was not followed.
The statement read in part:
“Let me categorically state that nothing of such occurred. I therefore dismiss the purported suspension as null and void and of no effect whatsoever, as it is inconsistent with the provisions of the ADC Constitution and the laid-down rules of our great party.
“For emphasis, there was no State meeting where such a decision was taken. Any disciplinary action must originate from the ward level, proceed to the Local Government, and then receive the assent of the State Working Committee (SWC). The SWC has no powers to unilaterally suspend a member without due process.
“I strongly condemn the purported suspension of Hon. Leke Abejide and the unauthorized use of my name as a signatory to the suspension letter. This reckless and unconstitutional act must be retracted immediately to preserve the stability of our party.
“I call on all leaders, stakeholders, members, and supporters of ADC in Kogi State and across Nigeria to disregard this falsehood and remain committed to the party’s progress.”
OBSERVERS TIMES recalled that, this incident is reminiscent of past political disputes where party factions have attempted to suspend members without following due process. Similar controversies have occurred in major parties like the PDP and APC, where internal wrangling often leads to conflicting statements and legal battles.
In 2020, the APC faced backlash when a faction suspended then-Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State, only for the party’ the action. Such disputes highlight the recurring challenge of enforcing party discipline while adhering to constitutional provisions.
The ADC’s swift rebuttal underscores the importance of internal democracy and adherence to party rules—a lesson Nigerian political parties continue to grapple with.
The Kogi ADC has reaffirmed its commitment to due process, urging unity and cautioning against actions that could destabilize the party. As the situation unfolds, observers will be watching to see if this controversy escalates or is resolved amicably.
