Tension Boils in Ondo ADC, the Ondo State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), as allegations of a leadership hijack attempt threaten to tear the party apart just as it begins to gain momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections.
At the heart of the crisis is an alleged move by some unnamed individuals to unseat the recognised executive led by Chief (Mrs) Ganiyu Sidikatu Ojo, a move party leaders say is illegal, destabilising, and contrary to the ADC’s constitution.
Sidikatu Ojo Still in Charge, ADC Fires Warning
In a strongly worded statement issued by Eniola Olurotimi, the ADC’s state Publicity Secretary, the party reaffirmed that Chief (Mrs) Ojo remains the only legitimate Chairperson of the party in Ondo State.
“All the list of names announced by certain people to coordinate local government offices of ADC in Ondo State is hereby not acceptable, null and void,” Olurotimi declared.
“It runs counter to the subsisting order within the party. Those so appointed must immediately desist from exercising any authority whatsoever on behalf of the party.”
He described the list being circulated online and offline, purportedly appointing new coordinators across the 18 LGAs of Ondo State, as a “desperate misinformation campaign” aimed at confusing the public and causing internal unrest.
Leadership Crisis or Political Ambition?
Although the statement did not name those behind the alleged coup attempt, party insiders suggest that the move could be linked to 2026 political ambitions, as aspirants begin to jostle for dominance ahead of ADC primaries.
Observers believe that the ADC’s growing popularity as a third force alternative to both APC and PDP has made its state structures attractive — and vulnerable — to hijack plots by desperate politicians.
ADC: We Won’t Tolerate Impersonators
The party warned that any individuals or groups attempting to speak or act on behalf of the party without constitutional backing will be considered impersonators and may face legal consequences.
“Impersonating party authority or taking unilateral actions will not be tolerated,” the statement read.
“Future appointments at the local level will be made with the full consent of the state executive in accordance with the party constitution.”
Coalition Politics & Bigger Stakes
This controversy comes just days after the ADC announced that a coalition of opposition parties had resolved to rally behind it as the political front to challenge the ruling APC ahead of the 2027 elections. The party is positioning itself as a fresh alternative in the wake of widespread dissatisfaction with the federal government’s handling of the economy and security.
According to the Ondo State ADC, this coalition “marks a new chapter in Nigerian politics, one that aims to restore hope and dignity to citizens.”
Party Calls for Calm, Discipline
In the face of the growing crisis, the party leadership is calling on stakeholders and grassroots members to remain calm, disciplined, and focused on the bigger political objective of national transformation.
“The reaffirmation of the ADC Executive structure in Ondo State serves as a reminder that legitimacy and internal order remain the cornerstone of ADC operations,” Olurotimi said.
He further emphasized that under Chief (Mrs) Ojo’s leadership, the party would continue to engage voters, strengthen grassroots mobilisation, and present itself as a credible political alternative in the state and beyond.
