By; PATRICK TITUS, Uyo ADC is not an opposition party in Akwa Ibom State, but one that will offer fresh opportunity for the electorate n
By; PATRICK TITUS, Uyo
ADC is not an opposition party in Akwa Ibom State, but one that will offer fresh opportunity for the electorate nationwide to make choices on whom they want to democratically rule them from 2027.
This was the general point raised by ADC faithful as the party was officially unveiled in the state at the weekend in Uyo, the state capital city amidst a sea of supporters who converged for the ceremony.
The ceremony which also featured the inaugural stakeholders meeting of the coalition has as its theme “Reclaiming Democracy & Empowering the People,”
Senator John James Udoedehe, who is the leader of coalition in the state, stressed the need for unity in the party to challenge the current All Progressives Congress (APC) led government in the state which he noted as insensitive to the plights of Akwa ibomites.
Senator Udoehe also emphasized the need for diverse choices for the populace, citing the dangers of denying opportunities for political participation and contestation, which can lead to social unrest if not checked.
His words, “Our interest is to build a strong party, so please keep your differences aside and work together. we, who were enemies before have come together to oust insensitive government for the good of our people. I encourage you to love this party and help it win.”
He however, urged the party to prepare ahead for credible and quality candidates to field for different offices in 2027 general election, noting that such would boost the coalition’s chances of winning in the elections.
In his welcome address, the State Chairman, African Democratic Congress, Hon. Duke Dike described the ADC as a party that is pregnant with vision to rescue Akwa Ibom people and indeed Nigerians from misrule by the current government.
“We are gathered here not just to wave a flag or to take photographs but to send a clear and unshakeable message that democracy in Akwa Ibom and in Nigeria must be reclaimed, renewed, and be re-anchored to the will of the people.
“For too long, our nation has struggled under the weight of politics that serves the powerful few instead of the suffering many. For families across Nigeria face hardship daily. Inflation is bitting, jobs are scarce, insecurity haunts our communities, and our young people are leaving the country in despair, searching for opportunities that should be here at home.
“Here in Akwa Ibom, a state bless with oil, gas, fertile land, and brilliant people, poverty still grip s too many families. Our youths, instead of being empowered, are too often ignored or manipulated. Women, who carry the strength of our society, are sidelined from decision making communities that should thrive are left behind.” Dike stated.
ADC’s ideology he added, i”s eclectric pragmatic meaning we do not cling to empty dogmas. We take the best of ideas, left or right, and apply them with wisdom to the real problems of our people”
On his part the Assistant National Organising Secretary, (South South), Dr. Ben Smith drew parallels lines between the suffering of the children of Israel and the current plight of millions of Nigerians and Akwa Ibomites. He asserted that God has heard the cries of the people and sent the ADC as a means of deliverance. “The ADC as a Party is God’s solution, a platform where people can choose their own governor and delegates, free from the influence of ‘godfathers,'” he said.
In their separate remarks, the party’s youth and woman leaders, Edidiong Ekpe and Hon.Juliet Amba respectively, called on supporters to work together to bring positive change. They pledged their commitment to the party’s progress and vowed to remove any leader who does not work for the interest of the masses.
Other highlights were the unveiling/hoisting of the ADC flag by the State Chapter Chairman, Hon Duke Dike.
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