Storm in Ebonyi ADC as Rival Camps Battle for Control Ahead of 2027 Elections

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Ebonyi State is facing a deepening internal crisis as two rival factions struggle for control of the party structure ahead of the 2027 general elections. The conflict, which has intensified in recent weeks, pits supporters of former governor Sam Egwu against loyalists of party chairperson Jennifer Adibe-Nwafor, creating uncertainty about the party’s cohesion and future prospects in the state.

The situation has been further complicated by allegations of internal sabotage, claims of divided loyalties, and parallel congresses that produced competing leadership structures. Political observers warn that if unresolved, the crisis could significantly weaken the ADC’s chances in the upcoming elections.

Parallel Congresses Deepen ADC Leadership Crisis

Tensions within the ADC reached a boiling point following the conduct of separate state congresses by the rival factions in Abakaliki. The Egwu-aligned group held its congress at Preston Luxury Hotel, producing Barrister Silas Onu as factional chairman, while the Adibe-Nwafor bloc organised its own congress at the Great Aristocrat Hotel, reaffirming her leadership.

The dispute is rooted in disagreements over a proposed consensus arrangement intended to streamline leadership selection. While the Egwu faction supported the move as a means of fostering unity, Adibe-Nwafor and her supporters rejected it, arguing that it could sideline established party members and undermine internal democracy.

Since then, both factions have laid claim to legitimacy, each insisting that its congress complied with party rules. The existence of two parallel leadership structures has effectively split the party at the state level, raising concerns about its organisational stability.

Allegations, Counterclaims, and Political Undercurrents

The crisis has been marked by a series of accusations and counter-accusations. Adibe-Nwafor has repeatedly denied claims that she maintains ties with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), describing such allegations as attempts to discredit her leadership. She maintains that her faction represents the authentic structure of the ADC in Ebonyi.

On the other hand, leaders within the Egwu camp have alleged that certain individuals within the party were planted to weaken opposition platforms from within. They argue that the current restructuring efforts are aimed at repositioning the ADC as a credible political force capable of challenging dominant parties in the state.

The broader political environment in Ebonyi also appears to be influencing the crisis. Observers note that shifting alliances, defections, and longstanding rivalries have created fertile ground for internal disputes within opposition parties.

Diverging Views on the ADC Future

Opinions remain sharply divided on what the crisis means for the ADC’s future. Some political stakeholders warn that prolonged infighting could erode public confidence and diminish the party’s competitiveness ahead of 2027.

However, others see the situation differently. Linus Okorie, a former senatorial candidate, described the developments as part of a broader process of internal restructuring and consolidation. According to him, such dynamics are not unusual in growing political parties and may ultimately strengthen the ADC if properly managed.

Similarly, factional chairman Silas Onu insists that the party is undergoing a necessary transformation and remains on course to achieve electoral success. In contrast, Adibe-Nwafor maintains that her leadership is legitimate and warns against attempts by “outsiders” to take control of the party.

As both sides dig in, the path to reconciliation remains uncertain. Political analysts suggest that without swift intervention by the national leadership, the ADC in Ebonyi risks fragmentation at a critical moment in Nigeria’s political cycle.