ADC clarifies membership registration process

The Office of the National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has issued a formal clarification following what it described as misleading information circulating in the public domain over the party’s membership registration process.

The party emphasised that the ADC is founded on principles of order, discipline, and strict adherence to its constitution, noting that the party’s membership registration process is clearly defined and leaves no room for ambiguity.

In a statement released by the National Chairman of the ADC’s authentic national leadership, Hon. Nafiu Bala Gombe, the party distanced itself from reports claiming that a certain Mr Peter Obi was registered at the party’s zonal office in Enugu, stressing that such action contravenes the ADC’s constitution and established procedures.

Gombe said, “It has come to our attention that a certain Mr Peter Obi was reportedly registered at a party zonal office in Enugu. The National Working Committee wishes to categorically state that this action does not align with the constitutional and stipulated procedures for membership registration into the African Democratic Congress.

“The ADC is a party built on the principles of order, discipline, and strict adherence to its constitution. The process of registering with the ADC is clearly outlined as follows:

“Ward Registration: Prospective members must register at their respective Ward levels within their state of origin or residence. This is the primary and constitutionally recognised point of entry.

“Documentation: Registration requires the completion of official party forms and the provision of necessary details as required by the party’s registry.

“Issuance of Membership Card: Upon successful registration at the Ward level, a validated party membership card is issued.”

While reaffirming the party’s openness to all Nigerians, the statement stressed that such inclusiveness must be exercised strictly within the framework of the ADC’s laws and regulations.

He added, “The party’s constitution does not provide for the registration of individuals at Zonal or National offices outside of their designated wards. Any registration carried out contrary to this provision is considered irregular and invalid.

“Therefore, the Office of the National Chairman distances the original, constitutionally-governed ADC from the reported registration of Mr Peter Obi at the Enugu Zonal office. The party is investigating this breach of due process.“

The ADC leadership further urged prospective members, party supporters, and the general public to ignore any claims suggesting alternative channels for party registration, reiterating that ward-level registration remains the only valid and recognised method.

“The ADC remains committed to providing a robust and credible platform for all Nigerians but insists on doing so within the ambit of its laws and regulations,” he added.