ADC launches 600‑member campaign council in Rivers, warns INEC of rigging

ADC inaugurates 600‑member campaign council

On Monday, 26 October 2026, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) held a ceremony in Port Harcourt to launch its governorship campaign council for the 2027 elections. The council, composed of 600 members at the state level, was chaired by Senator (Ohna) Andrew Uchendu with Hon. Chimbiko Akarolo appointed as Director‑General. State Chairman Chief (Dr) Chukwudi Dimkpa formally handed over the responsibility for the campaign to the council and urged members to act responsibly and in accordance with the party constitution.

During the inauguration, ADC governorship candidate Dr. Gabriel Pidomson warned the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) that the party would resist any attempt to rig the upcoming elections. Pidomson said the party had prepared a large campaign structure and would not allow manipulation of results.

Background

The ADC has been active in Rivers State politics for several years. The party’s state chapter has previously criticised the administration of former Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara, alleging that governance had been abandoned and that the state’s infrastructure, including hospitals and schools, had deteriorated. Senator Uchendu, in his acceptance speech, highlighted the need for independent executive, legislative and judicial functions and condemned the influence of political elites in the state.

The campaign council’s 600 members represent the largest structure the ADC has ever assembled in Rivers State. The council also includes more than 6,000 members at the local government and unit levels, according to Pidomson.

Why it matters

The 2027 general elections will determine the governorship of Rivers State, a key oil‑producing region in Nigeria. The ADC’s warning to INEC signals the party’s concern that electoral malpractices could undermine the democratic process. Pidomson claimed that the party’s extensive preparation and large campaign network would enable it to counter any rigging attempts.

The council’s formation also reflects the ADC’s strategy to mobilise a broad base of supporters across the state. By establishing a large, disciplined team, the party aims to secure a victory in the forthcoming polls, as Pidomson asserted.

What happens next

The ADC has not announced any specific actions beyond the inauguration and the warning to INEC. The party’s next steps will likely involve the execution of its campaign plan under the leadership of Senator Uchendu and Director‑General Akarolo. No further dates or decisions have been released by the sources.