The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Cross River State is embroiled in a deepening crisis following a warning from party leaders to disregard a meeting organized by Usani Usani, the party’s National Vice Chairman for the South-South region. Usani is currently serving a three-month suspension from the party.
According to a press release issued by the party’s Publicity Secretary, James Otudor, on November 30, 2025, the meeting, scheduled to take place at the Calabar residence of former Governor Senator Liyel Imoke, is not recognized by the party. The party leadership emphasizes that meetings held in private residences under the ADC name are illegal and lack official recognition.
The controversy surrounding Usani’s actions stems from his failure to formally resign from his previous political party before participating in ADC activities, as directed by the party. The ADC has reiterated that anyone seeking to join the party must complete the official registration process. Usani’s actions have been described as anti-party, and the leadership has warned against attempts to undermine the party’s integrity through “backdoor maneuvers.”
Only fully registered executives are authorized to address issues such as delegate lists, in line with the party’s constitution. The party leadership has advised members to ignore these invalid meetings, emphasizing that the ADC does not conduct official business in private residences. Any meeting held without the approval of the state chairman must be immediately discontinued.
The meeting at Imoke’s residence has raised speculation, with some suggesting it may be a pretext for a reception to honor an award conferred on the former governor by the current Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The ADC leadership remains committed to safeguarding its integrity, unity, and constitutional order.
When approached for comment, former Governor Imoke declined to respond, while Usani stated that he was speaking as the National Vice Chairman of the party in the South-South and denied the existence of his suspension. The ADC’s stance on the matter highlights the party’s efforts to maintain its internal cohesion and adherence to its constitution. As the situation unfolds, the party’s ability to navigate this crisis will be closely watched by its members and the broader political community.