Edo ADC Disbands Leadership: Oyegun, Osunbor, and Others Face Suspension Over Alleged Betrayal

In the midst of the turmoil affecting the leadership of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, a faction of the party in Edo State has suspended two prior governors of the state, two former senators and seven additional individuals for purported defiance, anti-party actions, and failure to adhere to the party’s legitimate directives, among various other infractions.

NAIJATAB reports that the suspended former governors consist of Chief John Odigie Oyegun and Osareimen Osunbor while the two suspended senators are Yisa Braimah from Edo North, and Ehigie Uzamere from Edo South.

Also facing suspension are Nosa Ehima, the previous Oredo local government chairman, Sylvester Ewanehi, a former commissioner in the state, Tony Alile, the recently elected state chair of the party, Jafaru Sumaila, Stella Alli, Igieogbe Asemota, and Christopher Ojeikere, the state publicity secretary of the party.

A statement endorsed by Kennedy Odion, the factional state chair of the party, indicated that the decision to suspend the members was reached at a gathering of the State Executive Committee.

Odion accused the suspended members of engaging in acts of defiance, including failure to comply with the lawful commands of the party, anti-party actions, and behavior that contradicts ADC aims and directives, alongside unauthorized factionalization including the establishment of parallel organs or structures.

He further claimed that these actions could lead to dissatisfaction, chaos, or disruption within the party composition.

The State EXCO additionally alleged that the suspended members took part in unauthorized groups or caucuses that are unacknowledged by the party constitution.

Odion revealed that all affected members are prohibited from participating in party meetings, activities, and decision-making processes.

“They shall not act as representatives of the party in any official or unofficial capacity. They shall no longer present themselves as officials or agents of the party.

“Any party organ or structure is hereby instructed to deny recognition and operational access to the affected members during the suspension period.

“In accordance with Article 15(B) and the principles of natural justice, the claims against each affected member shall be formally communicated in writing to the
The State Disciplinary Committee shall inform each member of the hearing particulars.

“Each member shall possess the right to present a defense (oral or written), be accompanied by counsel, and call witnesses. Proceedings shall be concluded within the constitutionally stipulated timeframe.

“All affected members retain the right to appeal as per Article 15(D), with appeals required to be submitted within 14 days of receiving this notice. Appeals shall be resolved within 21 days by the appropriate higher body of the Party.

“All Local Government Area, LGA, Ward Executives, and affiliated structures are hereby required to ensure strict adherence to this directive, avoid recognizing or involving suspended members in party matters.

“Report any violations of this directive to the State EXCO immediately. This directive is effective immediately from the date of issuance,” Odion stated.

He added that the suspension is to take immediate effect.