A former governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress in Rivers State, Dr. Tonte Ibraye, has resigned his membership of the party. Ibraye cited internal leadership crisis and concerns over the legitimacy of its 2027 electoral processes as reasons for his resignation. His resignation letter, dated September 24, 2026, was addressed to the ADC Ward Chairman in Degema Ward 16, Bille. Ibraye expressed commitment to the growth of the ADC and its principles, but recent developments made it difficult for him to continue as a member.
Ibraye raised concerns over attempts by some new members to displace legitimate party executives across the country. He also cited the leadership crisis surrounding the David Mark-led faction and its exercise of powers over party structures and electoral processes amid ongoing legal disputes. According to Ibraye, the continued attempt by a disputed leadership to determine ADC candidates for the 2027 elections raises questions about the legitimacy and stability of such candidatures.
The former ADC governorship candidate described the political tickets emerging from what he considered disputed processes as being “on quicksand rather than solid ground.” Ibraye argued that no political movement could build a credible future while its internal foundation remained subject to fundamental legal and organisational disputes. He faulted the opposition’s focus on replacing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu without sufficiently presenting Nigerians with a clear strategy on how it intends to govern differently.
Ibraye stated that he could no longer remain on what he considered a sinking political ship. He would now begin consultations with his supporters, political associates, and political leaders across the 23 local government areas of Rivers State on his next political direction. Ibraye expressed appreciation to genuine members and supporters of the ADC with whom he had worked over the years.
Ibraye's resignation takes immediate effect, and he informed the party accordingly. Despite his resignation, he said it would not diminish his commitment to the development of Rivers State and Nigeria or his belief in accountable and people-centred leadership. Ibraye remains committed to working towards the betterment of his community and the country.
The resignation of Dr. Tonte Ibraye from the ADC may have implications for the party's fortunes in Rivers State, particularly given his status as a former governorship candidate. The ADC and other political parties will need to navigate the complexities of the 2027 electoral processes, ensuring that their internal processes are transparent and legitimate to build trust with voters.
As Ibraye begins to explore his next political direction, he will likely engage with various stakeholders in Rivers State to determine the best course of action. His decision to resign from the ADC and potentially join or form another political movement may have significant repercussions for the state's political landscape in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections.
Key points
- Dr. Tonte Ibraye resigns from ADC due to internal leadership crisis and concerns over 2027 electoral processes legitimacy.
- Ibraye cites attempts to displace legitimate party executives and disputed leadership as reasons for his resignation.
- Ibraye's resignation may have implications for ADC's fortunes in Rivers State and the 2027 general elections.
