Breaking News: Former ADC Rivers gubernatorial candidate Ibraye leaves party due to leadership crisis

A former governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Rivers State, Dr. Tonte Ibraye, has resigned his membership of the party, citing internal leadership crisis and concerns over the legitimacy of its 2027 electoral processes.

Ibraye, in a resignation letter dated September 24, 2026 and addressed to Degema Ward 16 ADC district chairman, Bille, said recent developments within the party have made it difficult for him to continue as a member.

He said he remained committed to the growth of the ADC and its principles of internal democracy, fairness and respect for legitimate party structures.

However, Ibraye expressed concern over what he described as attempts by some new members to replace legitimate party leaders across the country.

He also expressed concern about the leadership crisis surrounding the David Mark-led faction and what he described as its exercise of power over party structures and electoral processes amid ongoing legal disputes.

According to him, the continued attempt by a contested leadership to determine the ADC candidates for the 2027 elections raises questions about the legitimacy and stability of such candidatures.

He described the political tickets emerging from what he saw as contentious trials as “on quicksand rather than solid ground.”

Ibraye argued that no political movement could build a credible future as long as its internal foundations remained subject to fundamental legal and organizational disputes.

He also criticized what he described as 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 and improve the lives of citizens.

“I have therefore decided that I can no longer remain on what I consider to be a sinking political ship,” he said.

The former ADC governorship candidate said he will now begin consultations with his supporters, political associates and political leaders in the 23 local government areas of Rivers State on his next political direction.

Ibraye expressed appreciation to the true ADC members and supporters he had worked with over the years.

He said his resignation would not diminish his commitment to the development of Rivers State and Nigeria or his belief in responsible and people-centred leadership.

He therefore informed the party that his resignation was effective immediately.