By Mardiyyah Abubakar
Former Rivers State governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress, Tonte Ibraye, has resigned from the party, citing its internal leadership crisis and concerns over its 2027 electoral processes.
Ibraye announced his resignation in a letter dated September 24, 2026, addressed to the ADC Ward Chairman in Degema Ward 16, Bille, Rivers State.
He said recent developments within the party had made it difficult for him to remain a member, despite his commitment to the ADC and its principles of internal democracy, fairness and respect for legitimate party structures.
Ibraye expressed concern over what he described as attempts by some new members to replace existing party executives across the country.
He also questioned the leadership crisis involving the faction led by former Senate President David Mark and its control of party structures and electoral processes amid ongoing legal disputes.
According to Ibraye, the emergence of candidates through disputed processes could raise questions about the legitimacy of their candidacies ahead of the 2027 elections.
He also criticised the opposition for focusing on replacing President Bola Tinubu without, in his view, adequately presenting Nigerians with a clear alternative plan for governance.
Ibraye said he would begin consultations with his supporters, political associates and political leaders across the 23 local government areas of Rivers State before deciding on his next political direction.
He said his resignation took immediate effect, adding that leaving the ADC would not affect his commitment to the development of Rivers State and Nigeria.
