No Endorsement for Amaechi, South-South ADC Clarifies

No Endorsement for Amaechi, South-South ADC Clarifies

The South-South chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has dismissed reports that it endorsed former Rivers State governor, Rotimi Amaechi, for the presidency.

The clarification follows remarks credited to the party’s South-South zonal National Leader, John Odigie-Oyegun, who had suggested that leaders in the region unanimously backed Amaechi’s presidential ambition.

At a consultative meeting of South-South leaders held in Benin City on Friday, Odigie-Oyegun said Amaechi used the gathering to formally notify stakeholders of his intention to run for the nation’s top office. He described the response from leaders as positive and unanimous.

According to him, the region was pleased that Amaechi chose to inform leaders before embarking on his ambition. He added that the meeting agreed to give him all the support he would require in pursuit of the presidency.

However, the party’s South-South Zonal Publicity Secretary, Mabel Oboh, on Saturday faulted reports of any endorsement, describing them as misleading.

Oboh explained that the February 27 meeting, held at Odigie-Oyegun’s residence, brought together party elders, senior stakeholders and representatives from Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo and Rivers states.

She said the purpose of the meeting was to strengthen unity within the party, deepen grassroots mobilisation and strategically position the ADC for future elections.

She confirmed that Amaechi informed regional leaders of his intention to seek the party’s presidential ticket, but stressed that consultation should not be misconstrued as endorsement.

“At no time, before, during, or after the meeting, was any motion moved, resolution adopted, vote taken, or consensus reached to endorse any aspirant,” Oboh said.

She warned that inaccurate political reporting could harm internal party processes and create unnecessary tension. According to her, misinformation undermines democratic principles and weakens confidence in established procedures.

Oboh maintained that South-South leaders remain committed to due process and party constitutional provisions, insisting that no endorsement was granted to any aspirant.

She urged the public to disregard claims suggesting that the region had thrown its weight behind Amaechi’s presidential bid.