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The South-South Zonal Leadership of the African Democratic Congress has denied reports claiming that its national leader, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, and other regional leaders have endorsed former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi for the presidency.
Speaking on behalf of the zonal leadership, the South-South Zonal Publicity Secretary in a statement on Saturday, Mabel Oboh, described the reports as “misleading, undemocratic, and a troubling example of how selective narratives can distort political reality.”
The February 27 meeting, held at Oyegun’s residence in Benin, gathered respected party elders, senior stakeholders, and state representatives from Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, and Rivers States.
According to Oboh, the gathering was organised to strengthen internal cohesion, deepen grassroots mobilisation, and position the party strategically for future electoral contests.
“These were not casual attendees. They were seasoned political leaders, individuals with decades of experience in governance, party administration, and democratic practice.
“To suggest that such a body would casually abandon constitutional process for an informal endorsement is both inaccurate and illogical.”
During the meeting, Amaechi formally informed regional leaders of his intention to seek the party’s presidential ticket, a move Oboh described as a respectful consultation with his geopolitical zone.
“Consultation is not endorsement, and courtesy is not coronation. Receiving a prominent son of the South-South who chose to formally brief his regional leaders cannot be twisted into a declaration of support.”
Oboh emphasised that at no time, before, during, or after the meeting, was any motion moved, resolution adopted, vote taken, or consensus reached to endorse any aspirant.
She added, “The leaders did not endorse Amaechi or any other person as this will negate the principle of internal democracy.”
She further stressed that Chief Oyegun’s political history makes the allegation particularly implausible. As a former national chairman of a ruling political party and a longstanding advocate of constitutional order within party systems, Oyegun, she said, understands the weight of process and institutional discipline.
“It is inconceivable that a leader of his pedigree would undermine the very democratic structures he has spent decades strengthening,” Oboh added.
The zonal spokesperson expressed disappointment that some media houses published the endorsement narrative without thorough verification, warning that such reporting carries broader implications.
“Misinformation in political reporting does not merely mislead the public; it risks undermining democratic processes, fueling unnecessary tension within parties, and eroding confidence in institutional procedures. In a fragile political climate, responsible journalism is not optional; it is essential.”
She maintained that the ADC remains committed to internal democracy, noting that the power to nominate and elect candidates rests with constitutionally recognised organs of the party and ultimately with its members, not with a handful of leaders at a zonal consultation.
Reaffirming the unity of the South-South bloc, Oboh stated that the meeting’s true objective was structural consolidation and party growth, not premature political alignment.
“The elders of the South-South remain united, disciplined, and committed to due process. No endorsement took place. Any narrative suggesting otherwise is false and should be disregarded.”
Amaechi took advantage of the meeting to announce his intention to run for the office of the president in next year’s election.
