ADC Crisis Deepens in Cross River State

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Cross River State is facing a deepening crisis after party leaders warned members 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 ADC.

In a press release dated 30 November 2025, the party’s Publicity Secretary, James Otudor, stated that the meeting scheduled for the Calabar residence of former Governor and Senator Liyel Imoke is not recognized by the ADC. The leadership emphasized that gatherings held in private homes under the ADC name are illegal and lack official sanction.

The controversy stems from Usani’s failure to formally resign from his previous political party before taking part in ADC activities, as required by party rules. The ADC reiterated that anyone wishing to join must complete the official registration process. Usani’s actions were described as anti‑party, and the leadership warned that “backdoor maneuvers” aimed at undermining the party’s integrity would not be tolerated. Only fully registered executives are authorized to address matters such as delegate lists, in accordance with the party’s constitution.

Members were instructed to ignore the invalid meeting, with the party stressing that it does not conduct official business in private residences. Any gathering held without the state chairman’s approval must be discontinued immediately.

The meeting at Imoke’s home has sparked speculation that it might serve as a pretext for a reception honoring 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 the party’s integrity, unity, and constitutional order. When approached for comment, former Governor Imoke declined to respond, while Usani asserted that he was speaking as the National Vice‑Chairman for the South‑South and denied the existence of his suspension. The party’s stance underscores its effort to maintain internal cohesion and adherence to its constitution, and its handling of the crisis will be closely watched by members and the broader political community.