Former governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Rivers State, Tonte Ibraye, has resigned from the party, citing internal leadership differences 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.
In the letter made available to The Nation in Abuja, Ibraye said he had remained committed to the ADC and its principles of internal democracy, fairness and respect for established party structures.
He said, however, that recent developments within the party had made it difficult for him to continue as a member.
Ibraye expressed concerns over changes to party structures and the leadership dispute involving the faction led by former Senate President David Mark, particularly its role in party administration and electoral processes.
He said the ongoing legal issues surrounding the party’s leadership had raised questions for him about how candidates would be selected for the 2027 elections.
According to Ibraye, political candidates emerging from processes affected by unresolved internal and legal disputes could face uncertainty.
He argued that political parties seeking to present credible candidates should have clear and stable internal structures.
The former governorship candidate also said he was concerned about the broader direction of opposition politics, particularly the emphasis on replacing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu without, in his view, sufficient emphasis on presenting Nigerians with alternative policy proposals and governance plans.
‘I have therefore decided that I can no longer remain on what I consider a sinking political ship,’ he stated.
Ibraye said he would now consult with his supporters, political associates and political leaders across the 23 local government areas of Rivers State before deciding on his next political move.
He expressed appreciation to ADC members and supporters he had worked with over the years.
The former candidate said his resignation would not affect his commitment to the development of Rivers State and Nigeria or his advocacy for accountable and people-centred leadership.
He consequently informed the party that his resignation took immediate effect.