Amaechi rejects ADC presidential primary outcome, alleges massive disenfranchisement

Former Rivers State Governor and ex-Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has rejected the outcome of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential primary election, describing the exercise as flawed, “concocted,” and lacking any credible democratic foundation.

Amaechi, who spoke shortly after the announcement of the results, insisted that the process did not reflect the will of party members.

“I unequivocally reject the concocted results being announced,” he said, adding that he would only recognise an outcome that emerges from a free, fair, and transparent process.

He further alleged widespread exclusion of delegates and party members from the voting exercise, claiming that a significant majority were denied participation.

According to him, “about eighty percent of members of the party were not allowed to vote,” a situation he argued fundamentally undermined the legitimacy of the primary.

The allegation has sparked renewed scrutiny of the African Democratic Congress’ internal electoral procedures, with concerns about transparency, inclusiveness, and adherence to party guidelines.

Political analysts say the controversy reflects a recurring challenge in Nigeria’s opposition party primaries, where disputes over delegate lists and accreditation often lead to post-election litigation and factional tension.

READ ALSO: Amaechi camp rejects ADC presidential primary in Imo, calls exercise a ‘Sham’

Dr. Kunle Adegoke, a political governance expert, noted that such disputes weaken party cohesion ahead of general elections.

He argued that “when key aspirants openly reject primary outcomes, it signals unresolved structural weaknesses in internal democracy and erodes public confidence in the party’s ability to govern inclusively.”

Similarly, Abuja-based political commentator, Ifeanyi Okonkwo, observed that Amaechi’s allegations—whether proven or not—could deepen divisions within the ADC.

He added that “claims of widespread disenfranchisement are serious because they go to the heart of electoral legitimacy, and parties must ensure transparent accreditation systems to avoid such controversies.”

As reactions continue to trail the development, attention is now focused on whether the ADC leadership will respond to the allegations or move to validate the contested outcome amid growing internal pressure.