The Anambra State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Sunday convened a state secretary stakeholders’ meeting at Obi Nnewichi Hall in Nnewi North Local Government Area.
The gathering drew party members, local government executives, coalition partners, and supporters from across the state. Among those in attendance were several local government chairmen, political coordinators, and representatives of support groups aligned with the party.
Notable attendees included the Director-General linked to Hon. Gini Williams, who is credited with facilitating the establishment of 16 ward offices across Idemili North and South LGAs. Chairmen from Idemili South, Aguata, Ihiala, Nnewi South, Ekwusigo, and parts of Orumba South LGAs were also present, accompanied by their respective delegations. The coordinator of the Obi-dient Movement in Nnewi North LGA and representatives of COPDEM were likewise in attendance.
Coalition Background and Party Structure
Addressing participants, the ADC Anambra State Secretary, Pastor Lawrence Okeke, provided an overview of the coalition process that led to the current alignment between COPDEM and ADC. He traced the collaboration to 2024, culminating in the signing of a memorandum of understanding on January 31, 2025.
According to Okeke, COPDEM’s political structure subsequently integrated into ADC and began mobilising across the state to strengthen the party’s grassroots presence. He noted that by April 2025, the party’s structure had been fully established before the entry of Mr. John Chuma Nwosu and his campaign team into ADC. He also referenced Comrade Patrick Obainyo’s earlier emergence as governorship flag bearer prior to the party’s internal transition.
Internal Challenges and Call for Unity
The meeting also addressed concerns over internal disputes within the state chapter. Party leaders alleged attempts by certain individuals to disrupt or influence the party’s structure for personal gain. However, the session proceeded without major incident, with appeals made for unity and adherence to party procedures.
Participants were reminded that both online and manual membership registrations are recognised by the party’s national leadership. Officials emphasised that proper registration, including possession of a valid digital membership card, would determine eligibility to contest positions at the forthcoming congress.
Preparations for Congress and 2027 Elections
The state leadership reiterated that all party positions would be open for contest once nomination forms are officially released. Anambra members were encouraged to intensify grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Supporters at the meeting expressed continued backing for Peter Obi, whom they identified as a key political figure from Anambra State expected to play a major role in the 2027 presidential race.
Party officials set an ambitious mobilisation target for the state and urged members to expand outreach efforts in their respective communities.
Comrade Patrick Obainyo was reaffirmed as the authentic State Secretary pending the outcome of the upcoming congress, with leaders calling on members to work collectively for the stability and growth of ADC in Anambra.
In his closing remarks, Pastor Okeke thanked attendees, supporters, and stakeholders for their participation and reaffirmed the party’s commitment to what he described as good governance and democratic progress in Anambra State and Nigeria.
