By Adebamiwa Olugbenga Michael
The African Democratic Congress (ADC), one of Nigeria’s most prominent opposition parties and the emerging platform for a new anti-establishment coalition, has suspended its National Vice Chairman (South-South), Dr. Usani Uguru Usani, over alleged anti-party activities, insubordination, and constitutional breaches.
The suspension, announced on October 20, 2025, was issued by the party’s Cross River state Chapter and endorsed by zonal executives after multiple petitions accused the former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs of engaging in conduct “capable of undermining the image, cohesion, and electoral prospects of the ADC.”
The party’s disciplinary committee cited defiance of leadership directives, unauthorized alliances, and possible dual affiliations as grounds for immediate suspension pending investigation.
In line with the sanctions, Dr. Usani has been barred from all party activities, while the ADC directed all coalition partners and new entrants to complete ward-level registration by October 25, 2025, warning that failure to comply could attract disqualification from leadership roles.
The move, reportedly backed by interim national chairman Senator David Mark, reflects the ADC’s attempt to consolidate internal control ahead of a planned coalition announcement early next year. However, the decision has also reignited concerns about deepening factionalism within the party, which has recently seen disciplinary crises in Kogi and Abia States and long-standing leadership tussles in its South-West and Niger Delta blocs.
Political observers say the development could reshape opposition dynamics ahead of the 2027 elections, especially in the South-South, a key electoral region.
While supporters of the suspension view it as a step toward restoring party discipline, critics argue it signals internal intolerance at a time when the ADC is courting defectors from the PDP and APC.
With major opposition figures like Atiku Abubakar rumored to be aligning with the coalition, the ADC’s ability to manage dissent while maintaining unity will determine whether it remains a credible alternative to the ruling party.
As of press time, Dr. Usani had yet to publicly respond to his suspension.
