Former governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Rivers State, Dr. Tonte Ibraye, has resigned from the party, citing its leadership crisis and questioning the legitimacy of candidates that may emerge from its disputed 2027 electoral processes.

Ibraye, in a resignation letter dated September 24, 2026, and addressed to the ADC Ward Chairman, Degema Ward 16, Bille, said recent developments within the party had made it difficult for him to continue as a member.

He said he had remained committed to the growth of the ADC and its principles of internal democracy, fairness and respect for legitimate party structures.

However, Ibraye expressed concern over what he described as attempts by some new members to displace legitimate party executives across the country.

He also raised concerns over the leadership crisis surrounding the David Mark-led faction and its exercise of powers over party structures and electoral processes amid ongoing legal disputes.

According to him, the continued attempt by a disputed leadership to determine the ADC’s candidates for the 2027 elections raises serious questions about the legitimacy and stability of such candidatures.

He described the political tickets emerging from what he considered disputed processes as being “on quicksand rather than solid ground.”

Ibraye argued that no serious political movement could build a credible future while its foundation remained the subject of fundamental legal and internal disputes.

He also faulted what he described as the opposition’s focus on replacing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu without presenting Nigerians with a clear strategy on how it intends to govern differently and improve the lives of citizens.

“I have therefore decided that I can no longer remain on what I consider a sinking political ship,” he stated.

The former ADC governorship candidate said he would commence consultations with his supporters, political associates and leaders across the 23 local government areas of Rivers State on his next political direction.

Ibraye expressed appreciation to genuine members and supporters of the ADC with whom he had worked over the years.

He said his resignation would not diminish his commitment to the development of Rivers State and Nigeria or his belief in accountable and people-centred leadership.

He consequently informed the party that his resignation took immediate effect.