The newly elected state chairman, Dr. John Ogar, stated that the party still has enough time to sell nomination forms, urging interested aspirants to quickly visit the party secretariat to obtain theirs.

He made this known in Calabar shortly after the state congress, where a 37-member executive committee was elected through consensus.

Ogar noted that recent defections within the party have been minimal, adding that only one member of the new executive has left.

He also criticized politicians who advocate unity and strong opposition but later abandon coalitions for personal interests.

According to him, committed and loyal members of the party remain firmly on ground, insisting that the ADC in the state is intact and united.

He further pledged to strengthen and reposition the party, dismissing claims of internal factionalization.

Ogar maintained that the congress was conducted in line with the party’s constitution and was supported by a court ruling affirming the authority of the state executive to organize congresses.

In a statement approved by members of the Board, the group denounced the actions of what it called a “small and disgruntled faction” within the forum, accusing them of violating the ACF Constitution by convening an unauthorised meeting on May 6, 2026 and issuing a communiqué containing what it termed baseless claims against the Board Chairman.

The statement, signed by prominent members including Ambassador Hassan Adamu, General Muhammad Magoro (retd), General A.B. Mamman (retd), Alhaji Mahmud Yayale Ahmed, and others, maintained that the National Executive Council of the ACF has no constitutional authority to make decisions regarding the leadership of the Board of Trustees.

According to the Board, “It has no powers under our Constitution to appoint, suspend or remove any member of the Board of Trustees, let alone its Chairman. The actions of this small group represent a dangerous act of indiscipline, gross insubordination and a deliberate attempt to undermine the foundation of the Forum.”

The Trustees also faulted the role of the National Executive Committee Chairman, Mike Mamman Osman, SAN, for allegedly allowing the actions of the former Secretary General, Murtala Aliyu, whose tenure ended on March 10, 2026.

They stated that any actions taken by the former Secretary General after that date are “invalid, null and void,” adding that he is currently under investigation for his conduct while in office.

The Board further described the situation as an attempt to discredit the organisation and damage its reputation, insisting that a full investigation has been ordered into what it termed “acts of betrayal” within the forum.

It also dismissed claims of a leadership crisis in the ACF, stressing that there is no dispute over leadership, but rather what it called “self-serving actions of a disgruntled former official” refusing to vacate office after his tenure expired, allegedly rallying supporters to advance his agenda.

In a statement personally signed by Governor Dapo Abiodun, the centenarian was praised as a symbol of patriotism, democratic values, and principled leadership, whose impact on Nigeria’s political development remains significant and enduring.

The governor noted that Pa Fasoranti, who was born in Akure a century ago, distinguished himself as a teacher, school administrator, politician, and advocate of good governance.

Abiodun recalled his service as Commissioner for Finance in the former Ondo State during the administration of late Governor Michael Adekunle Ajasin between 1979 and 1983. He also highlighted Fasoranti’s contributions to education through the establishment of institutions such as Omolere Nursery School and extensions of Akure High School.

According to the governor, Fasoranti has remained one of Nigeria’s strongest advocates of democracy, federalism, and restructuring, and was actively involved in pro-democracy movements alongside nationalist figures like Obafemi Awolowo.

He added that the Afenifere leader faced persecution during military rule but remained committed to the belief that democratic governance is essential for Nigeria’s unity and development.

Governor Abiodun described him as “a national treasure,” noting that his wisdom and moral influence continue to inspire leaders across generations.

He concluded by celebrating Fasoranti on behalf of the people of Ogun State and prayed for his continued good health and longevity.

The elder statesman turns 100 on Sunday, with political leaders, traditional rulers, and associates expected to attend celebrations in his honour.