…urges security agencies to investigate alleged impostors

The Rivers State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has dismissed reports alleging that a faction of the party has collapsed its structure into the Rainbow Coalition, a political platform associated with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.

The party described the reports as false, misleading and a deliberate attempt to create the impression of division within its ranks.

In a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Tuesday, the State Publicity Secretary of the party, Chizy Enyi, maintained that the ADC remains united under its constitution and the leadership of its National Executive Committee (NEC), headed by former Senate President David Mark.

According to the party, there is no faction of the ADC in Rivers State, stressing that its structures remain intact and duly recognised.

The party also distanced itself from individuals claiming to represent it in the reported alliance, insisting they are neither officials nor authorised spokespersons of the ADC.

“Any political declaration, alliance, endorsement or purported collapse announced by such individuals is entirely personal and cannot, under any circumstance, be attributed to or bind the African Democratic Congress,” the statement said.

The ADC further faulted references in the reports to an alleged “Ibe Kachikwu faction,” describing the claim as baseless.

It challenged anyone to identify any recognised official or stakeholder of the party bearing that name either in Rivers State or at the national level.

According to the party, the error undermines the credibility of the reports and raises questions over the verification process adopted before publication.

“It reinforces our position that the reports were deliberately concocted to mislead the public and create a false impression of division within the ADC where none exists,” the statement added.

The party urged media organisations to verify information relating to the ADC through its recognised state and national leadership before publication, warning against serving as channels for political propaganda and misinformation.

It also called on the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS) and other relevant security agencies to investigate individuals allegedly parading themselves as officials of the party to determine whether offences such as impersonation, false representation, conspiracy or forgery had been committed.

The ADC vowed to explore all lawful means to protect its identity and integrity, insisting that those falsely claiming to represent the party would be held accountable in accordance with the law.

It reassured members and supporters that the party remained united and committed to providing credible leadership and good governance in Rivers State, despite what it described as attempts to undermine its credibility through misinformation.