By David Okon
The nationwide enthusiasm that greeted the coalition partners’ reception into the African Democratic Congress (ADC) — hailed as a formidable force to halt Nigeria’s drift towards a one-party state, combat bad governance, and rescue the nation — appears to be facing turbulence in Cross River State.
What began as a promising alliance aimed at uniting diverse political blocs for the state’s progress is now allegedly threatened by actions some members believe could undermine its unity, transparency, and purpose.
Sources have alleged that former Governor Liyel Imoke, Senator Gershom Bassey, and a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are attempting to hijack the coalition’s structure in Cross River State. The group is reportedly seeking to seize total control by installing loyalists to coordinate coalition activities, presenting them as the authentic ADC leadership. Notably, a certain Mr. Austin Ibok is said to be parading himself as the spokesperson of the ADC in the state.
“These actions include creating new roles and sidelining the established ADC state structure, which not only placed third in the 2023 gubernatorial election but also fielded credible candidates across the state,” a source revealed.
When contacted, some members of the legitimate ADC state leadership declined to comment directly, stating only that “the coalition is on course and whatever development is an internal matter, as the coalition is strengthening its platform for all partners.” However, insider reports indicate that this perceived power grab is breeding significant discontent among coalition partners, with major blocs such as the Labour Party, the Obidient Movement, APC, and SDP expressing concerns and showing signs of disengagement due to the lack of inclusivity.
There are growing fears that the same factors that led to the PDP’s decline in Cross River State may be re-emerging, threatening the coalition’s stability and credibility. The deliberate exclusion of the ADC State Executive from critical decisions has raised serious questions about fairness and transparency within the coalition. “The people of Cross River State deserve a coalition that represents their collective interests, not one dominated by a select few who, despite their past roles as governors and senators, struggle to secure influence even at the ward level,” the source added.
Our source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, called on the individuals involved “to cease these divisive actions and restore the coalition’s commitment to fairness, inclusivity, and collective decision-making.” The source further appealed to the media and civil society to “highlight this matter to ensure accountability and protect the democratic process in Cross River State.”
