01/03/2026
FALSE ENDORSEMENT NARRATIVE: LET’S SET THE RECORD STRAIGHT
Unfortunately, a simple act of courtesy and political respect is being distorted into a false narrative of endorsement.
On 27 February, leaders of the South-South zone of the African Democratic Congress gathered at the residence of respected elder statesman, John Odigie-Oyegun. The meeting brought together party stakeholders from across the six South-South states to discuss structure-building, unity, and grassroots strengthening.
During that meeting, former Rivers State Governor and presidential aspirant, Rotimi Amaechi, formally informed the zonal leadership of his intention to contest for the presidency. As a key political figure from the South-South, it was both proper and respectful for him to consult leaders in his region.
Receiving and welcoming a prominent son of the South-South does not translate to endorsement.
Let us be clear: courtesy is not commitment. Consultation is not coronation. Respect is not ratification.
Chief Oyegun and other zonal leaders acknowledged the courtesy extended to them. That is what responsible leadership looks like: open doors, listening ears, and adherence to due process.
The attempt by some media platforms to spin that moment into an endorsement is misleading and unfair. A short video clip taken out of context cannot rewrite the facts. At no point was there any motion, resolution, vote, or decision to endorse any aspirant.
The ADC remains a party governed by its constitution and internal democratic processes. The power to choose candidates lies with the appropriate organs of the party and, ultimately, with members, not with a handful of leaders at a zonal consultation meeting.
As South-South leaders, our priority is unity, discipline, and strengthening our structures, not creating artificial divisions through sensational headlines.
We urge the public and party faithful to disregard the misinformation being circulated.
The truth is simple:
A respected political leader paid a courtesy visit.
He was received respectfully.
No endorsement took place.
Let us resist the politics of distortion and remain focused on building a stronger, united ADC.
Signed:
Mabel Oboh
ADC South-South Zonal Publicity Secretary