Ibraye quits ADC, cites party leadership crisis

Nkereuwem Effiong

Former 2023 governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress in Rivers State, Dr Tonte Ibraye, has resigned from the party, citing its leadership crisis and concerns over the credibility of its 2027 electoral processes.

Ibraye announced his resignation in a letter dated 24 September 2026 and addressed to the ADC ward chairman in Degema Ward 16, Bille.

He said recent developments within the party had made it difficult for him to continue as a member despite his previous commitment to its principles of internal democracy, fairness and respect for legitimate party structures.

According to him, he could no longer reconcile those principles with what he described as attempts by some new members to displace existing party executives across the country.

Ibraye also raised concerns about the leadership dispute involving the faction led by former Senate President David Mark, saying the controversy had implications for the party’s structures and preparations for the 2027 elections.

He questioned the legitimacy of candidates produced through processes conducted amid unresolved leadership and legal disputes.

“Political tickets emerging from disputed processes are on quicksand rather than solid ground,” he said.

Ibraye argued that a political party could not build a credible electoral platform while its internal structures remained entangled in fundamental legal and organisational disputes.

Beyond the ADC crisis, the former candidate criticised the wider opposition for what he described as an excessive focus on removing President Bola Tinubu without sufficiently explaining how it would govern differently.

He said Nigerians needed a clear alternative programme capable of addressing the country’s economic and social challenges, rather than simply being asked to vote against an incumbent.

Ibraye said his decision to leave the ADC followed careful consideration of the party’s direction and the circumstances surrounding its internal affairs.

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

He said he would now consult his supporters, political associates and leaders across Rivers State’s 23 local government areas before deciding on his next political move.

Ibraye thanked members and supporters of the ADC with whom he had worked, saying his resignation did not diminish his commitment to the development of Rivers State and Nigeria. He also reaffirmed his support for accountable and people-centred leadership.