On April 8, 2026, the Abia State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) held a press conference at its State Party Secretariat following a strategic meeting. During the briefing, the party issued an official press release, which reads as follows:

ADC ABIA STATE CAUCUS DISOWNS DON NORMAN OBINNA, REAFFIRMS PARTY LEADERSHIP AND UNITY

The Abia State Leadership Caucus of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has formally disassociated the Party from the actions of Mr. Don Norman Obinna, stating unequivocally that he has no authority whatsoever to act or speak as the Chairman of the Party in Abia State.

At a duly convened meeting held at the ADC State Secretariat in Umuahia, Party leaders reviewed the leadership situation in the State and reaffirmed the Party’s position in strict adherence to due process, internal discipline, and the rule of law.

The Caucus drew attention to the subsisting Order of the High Court of Abia State in Suit No: HIN/52/2025, which, by an Interim Injunction dated 3rd December 2025, restrains Mr. Obinna from parading himself or acting in any capacity as Chairman of ADC in Abia State pending the determination of the matter before the Court.

The Caucus further aligned with the findings of the ADC South-East Zonal Disciplinary Committee Report dated 25th September 2025, which clearly established the Party’s position regarding his conduct and status.

In light of the foregoing, the Caucus declared that:

• Mr. Obinna Don Norman’s actions are unlawful, misleading, and a violation of Party discipline
• His continued impersonation of Party leadership constitutes a disregard for due process and a contempt of a valid court order
• Any meetings, directives, or press engagements conducted by him in the name of the Party are null and void

The Caucus therefore reaffirmed Mazi Kanu. O. Kanu as the Acting State Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Abia State, pending the conduct of the State Congresses of the Party.

The general public, security agencies, and all stakeholders are hereby urged to disregard any statements or actions taken by Mr. Obinna Don Norman in the purported capacity as ADC Abia State Chairman.

The Caucus also expressed its unwavering confidence in the leadership of the Party at the national level under Senator David Mark, reaffirming its commitment to the collective vision, unity, and direction of the Party. The Abia State Chapter stands firmly aligned with other state chapters in upholding discipline, respect for constituted authority,

Rt Hon Uko Ndukwe Nkole Fnitp,PhD
For on behalf of African Democratic Congress(ADC)
Abia State.

In an interview, Senator Austin Akobundu, a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), reaffirmed the party’s unity and ongoing preparations for its forthcoming congresses. He noted that the affirmation of the party’s national leadership has been clearly established, while the issue of the state chairmanship has also been addressed.

According to him, a three member committee has already been constituted to oversee the conduct of the congresses. He added that party leaders have held several meetings to determine the most suitable approach for the exercise, either through consensus or direct primaries, in order to ensure the emergence of credible leaders at all levels.

Senator Akobundu expressed optimism that, given the level of unity within the party, the consensus option is likely to prevail, although consultations are still ongoing. He emphasized that the ADC remains stable, noting that there is no leadership vacuum as the party already has an acting state chairman in place.

Similarly, High Chief Ikechi Emenike described the ADC as a united political party and a formidable opposition force in Nigeria, with a clear ambition of becoming the ruling party. He further stated that he would personally reach out to Mr. Don Norman in a bid to foster understanding and strengthen party cohesion.

A significant political declaration has emerged from Ikwuano Local Government Area, as prominent legal practitioner and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Barr. Monday ubani SAN, affirmed that the people of Ikwuano are firmly aligned with the re-election bid of Abia State Governor, Alex Otti.

Speaking on behalf of Ikwuano indigenes, Ubani stated that the community has expressed a unified and unwavering commitment to Governor Otti’s second-term ambition. He noted that the area had thrown its support behind Otti even prior to the 2023 gubernatorial election, emphasizing that the decision was rooted in conviction, foresight, and optimism for a better Abia State.

According to him, the policies, reforms, and developmental strides recorded since the governor assumed office have validated the trust reposed in his administration. He added that the current administration’s performance has drawn commendation both within and beyond the state, with many residents advocating continuity to sustain and deepen ongoing progress.

Ubani further stated that the people of Ikwuano are of the view that Governor Otti should complete a full eight-year tenure to effectively implement his development agenda. He suggested that, upon completion of this tenure, power could then transition to another credible Abia indigene to maintain the state’s development trajectory.

Addressing recent political developments, the Senior Advocate cautioned against what he described as opposition attempts to gain control of Ikwuano ahead of future elections. He maintained that the people remain politically conscious, united, and resolute in safeguarding their support base.

Observers note that the statement may reflect early political positioning ahead of the next governorship election in Abia State, as stakeholders begin to signal alignments.

Ubani also warned against a return to what he described as a past era marked by poor governance, mismanagement, and inefficient use of public resources. He stressed that many residents believe the state is currently on a progressive path that should be sustained.

Reaffirming his optimism, he expressed confidence in the continued political and economic advancement of Abia State.

Political analysts suggest that endorsements from influential individuals and communities are likely to intensify as the next election cycle approaches, noting that such declarations from local government areas often play a pivotal role in shaping political momentum and voter alignment.

Abia State former Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Ude Oko Chukwu, has openly called out Senator Orji Uzor Kalu over what he described as “unnecessary heating up of the polity,” warning that such actions could destabilize the peace currently enjoyed in the state.

Rising political tensions in Abia North arising from Senator Orji Uzor Kalu’s threat of thuggery and violence in the upcoming 2027 election, Ude Oko Chukwu, who is now a chieftain of the Labour Party and a senatorial aspirant, expressed deep concern over recent developments, noting that political actors must exercise restraint as the state approaches another electoral cycle.

The former Deputy Governor did not mince words as he criticized what he described as a recurring pattern of inflammatory politics associated with Senator Kalu.

According to him, leadership comes with responsibility, especially for individuals who have occupied high offices.

“In recent days, I have observed with dismay the unnecessary heating up of the polity. Even though this has been the pattern, I expected that as one grows older, there should be more responsibility, more caution, and a greater capacity for de-escalation,”

He added that such conduct raises serious concerns about the kind of leadership representation Abia North currently has at the Senate.

Ude Oko Chukwu further argued that the Senate requires individuals with maturity, vision, and the ability to unite people rather than divide them.

He insisted that the current situation reinforces the growing call for a change in representation for Abia North, emphasizing that the region deserves leadership focused on development, collaboration, and peaceful coexistence.

“The Senate is not for individuals who inflame tensions. It is for mature Nigerians who can unite their people, attract development, and build strong partnerships for progress,” 

In a notable shift, the former Deputy Governor commended Governor Alex Chioma Otti for what he described as his calm and democratic handling of political provocations.

He noted that despite enjoying massive support across the state, the Governor has continued to uphold democratic principles by allowing opposition voices to be heard.

“The Governor has shown that he is a man of peace and a true democrat. His response to provocation has been measured and responsible,” 

Ude Oko Chukwu, however, warned that recent statements by the Senator could be a dangerous signal of attempts to reintroduce political violence into Abia’s electoral process.

He assured that the people of Abia North are fully prepared to resist any form of electoral malpractice or violence.

“Abia North is ready to defend the will of the people. We will not allow any form of politically induced violence to return.”

In a direct appeal to young people, the former Deputy Governor urged Abia North youths to remain vigilant and refuse to be used as instruments of political disruption.

He warned that those who allow themselves to be manipulated for violence are often abandoned after elections.

“At the end of the day, those used as thugs are forgotten. I urge our youths to stay away from such actions and protect their future,”

Ude Oko Chukwu concluded by urging Senator Kalu to focus on presenting his achievements to the people rather than engaging in rhetoric that could inflame tensions.

He emphasized that democracy should be about performance and choice.

“Power belongs to God. Let him tell the people what he has done. If they are convinced, they will vote for him. If not, they will choose another option.”