Former Governor Liyel Imoke and ex-Minister Usani Usani have officially declared a political alliance under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), aiming to reclaim political leadership in Cross River State and push for wider reform across the South-South region.
At a major gathering of stakeholders from various political backgrounds, Imoke—now ADC’s state leader—described the alliance as a serious movement to fix governance failures at both state and national levels.
“We’re in for serious business,” Imoke said. “We want to reignite the spirit and determination we had in 1998 when, despite lacking resources, we successfully took over power in the state.”
He introduced Usani as the new National Vice Chairman of the ADC (South-South) and announced Jackie Wayas, daughter of the late Senate President Joe Wayas, as Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the party.
Hunger for change
Imoke expressed concern over the worsening economic hardship in the country, stating:
“Nigerians are hungry—not just for food, but for change and people-friendly leadership. Today, Nigeria has become the poverty and hardship capital of the world.”
He said the ADC’s priority would be to nurture a new generation of leaders, not recycle the political class of the past, and described the party’s constitution as one of the best among political parties in Nigeria.
Usani speaks on leaving APC
In his remarks, Usani explained that he left the All Progressives Congress (APC) due to broken promises and lost direction.
“Our mission is to build a new generation of purposeful, resourceful, and politically vibrant young leaders in Cross River and across the South-South,” he said. “This coalition is based on principle and vision—not personal ambition.”
Momentum builds for ADC in Cross River
During the event, former Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon. Bassey Ewa, moved a motion urging all present political groups to collapse into the ADC. The motion was seconded by Chief Akin Ricketts, a former State Commissioner for Information.
Dr. John Ogar, ADC Chairman in Cross River, welcomed the wave of new members, promising that with their support, the party would open offices in all 196 wards and 18 local government areas across the state.
The coalition is expected to reconvene in Calabar at the end of August 2025, as momentum grows for what appears to be a bold challenge to the ruling parties in Cross River State.
