The African Democratic Congress (ADC), Ondo State chapter, has suspended its ward, local government, and state congresses earlier scheduled to usher in new leadership structures across the state.
With the decision of the party coming amid the crisis rocking the party at the national level, the state chapter of ADC disclosed that the move became imperative in order to comply with the directive of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
According to the Chairman of the party in the state, Wole Ademoyegun, INEC had directed concerned parties to maintain the status quo ante bellum, hence the resolve to put on hold the congresses.
Ademoyegun, in a statement personally signed and made available to The Guardian, stressed that the electoral commission remains the constitutionally mandated regulatory authority for party affairs, and any deviation from its guidance would amount to a violation of electoral laws.
The state chairman explained that the party would not proceed with any congresses until further clarity is received from the commission.
While appealing to all members and stakeholders of the party to remain calm, maintain unity, and exercise the highest level of discipline during this period, the state leadership of the party advised against any form of activity that may contravene the directive of INEC or disrupt the peace and order within the party.
Security agencies, according to the chairman, have also been placed on alert to monitor and prevent any unlawful gatherings conducted under the guise of party activities.
The statement read in parts, “This decision is taken in strict compliance with the directive of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) directing all concerned parties to maintain the status quo ante bellum.
“Accordingly, all members and stakeholders of the party are hereby enjoined to remain calm, maintain
unity, and exercise the highest level of discipline during this period.
“The party strongly advises against any form of activity that may contravene the directive of INEC or disrupt the peace and order within the party.
“The ADC Ondo State Chapter remains committed to democratic principles, internal cohesion and proper political conduct. Further updates will be communicated in line with guidance from the appropriate regulatory authorities.”
Guardian
