A fresh crisis has hit the Edo State chapter of the African Democratic Congress as a faction of the party announced the suspension of some top members, including its national leader, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun.
The action was made public on Wednesday through a statement released by the factional State Executive Committee led by Comrade Kennedy Odion. Alongside Odigie-Oyegun, former Edo State governor Osareimen Osunbor and Ehigie Uzamare were also affected. Several other members, including Yisa Braimah, Nosa Ehima, Sylvester Ewanehi, Tony Alile, Jafaru Sumaila, Stella Alli, Igieogbe Asemota and Christopher Ojeikere, were listed in the decision.
The faction explained that the suspension followed alleged misconduct within the party. It accused those involved of disobedience, working against party interests and actions that could create division among members. It also pointed to claims of setting up parallel structures and participating in groups not approved by the party.
The decision, according to the statement, was based on provisions of the party’s constitution. It added that the suspension would last for a period of up to three months while a disciplinary committee investigates the matter.
The faction further stated that anyone affected by the decision has the right to challenge it. Such appeals are expected to be submitted within 14 days and would be reviewed within 21 days by the appropriate party body.
Reacting to the development, Odigie-Oyegun dismissed the move, describing it as not worth attention.
Meanwhile, the situation took another turn as Tony Alile, who was recently elected as state chairman under the leadership of David Mark, rejected the authority of the Odion-led group. He insisted that Odion had already been removed from the party at the national convention and therefore lacked the power to take any disciplinary action.
Alile said Odion’s tenure was already coming to an end and maintained that party affairs were now being handled by the state secretary, Charles Imuetinyan. He added that the suspension announced by the faction should not be taken seriously, as it did not reflect the position of the party’s recognised leadership.
The development shows growing division within the Edo chapter of the ADC, with both sides laying claim to authority and control of party structures.
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