The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has disavowed unofficial leadership groups claiming to represent its diaspora communities, calling them unauthorized and urging members worldwide to ignore the initiatives. In a statement released from Abuja, Nigeria, the party’s National Coordinator for Diasporan Affairs, Barrister Solomon Dalung, clarified that his office neither approved nor recognized the formation of such structures, which have reportedly emerged in multiple regions.
Dalung confirmed reports of individuals organizing these overseas chapters but emphasized they lacked official backing. “For clarity, I categorically state that my office has not authorized these structures. Any related activities should be dismissed as illegitimate,” he said. The coordinator stressed that a formal, inclusive framework for diaspora engagement would be introduced following thorough consultations and adherence to the party’s protocols.
The ADC, a Nigerian opposition party, has increasingly sought to mobilize support abroad, making the establishment of credible international chapters a strategic priority. Dalung’s remarks underscore efforts to maintain centralized control over such expansions. He assured members that a transparent process would soon unveil properly constituted leadership to coordinate diaspora activities, dismissing the rogue groups as disruptive to the party’s cohesion.
While not specifying the locations or identities of those involved, the statement warned against engaging with the unauthorized entities. Analysts suggest the controversy highlights challenges political parties face in managing grassroots initiatives abroad, where oversight can be limited. Dalung appealed for patience, emphasizing the need to “follow due process” to ensure accountability and representation.
The ADC’s move reflects broader tensions in balancing local autonomy with organizational integrity, particularly as African parties expand their global reach. No timeline was provided for the rollout of the approved diaspora structure, leaving overseas supporters awaiting further directives. For now, the party insists unity and adherence to official channels remain critical to its international strategy.
