ADC Launched in Benue, Open to Governor Alia’s Defection

Makurdi, Benue  — The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has officially been unveiled in Benue State, with its Protem State Chairman, Chief Terngu Tsegba, declaring that Governor Hyacinth Alia is welcome to join the party if he chooses.

Speaking to journalists shortly after the party’s official unveiling in Makurdi on Wednesday, Tsegba stated that political figures from other parties were already aligning with the ADC and integrating their structures into the new platform.

“Members of other parties are collapsing into the ADC,” he said. “Anybody who wishes to join us, including the Governor of Benue State, is welcome—provided they meet the party’s requirements.”

Tsegba, a former leader in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and one-time Speaker Pro Tempore of the House of Representatives, confirmed that he and others had formally left the PDP to join the ADC in a bid to offer a fresh political direction for Benue and Nigeria.

Expressing confidence in the ADC’s chances, he emphasized that the party would prioritize addressing the state’s security challenges if elected into office.

“Our people cannot thrive without security,” he said. “Farmers must return to their lands, and local businesses need stability. Our first agenda as a party will be restoring peace, resettling displaced people, and ensuring full autonomy for local governments.”

He also announced plans to scrap the Bureau for Local Government Affairs, stating that federal allocations should go directly to local councils for efficient grassroots development.

Earlier at the event, former Governor of Benue State, Senator Gabriel Suswam, noted that the ADC coalition was a product of growing discontent within the major political parties—PDP, APC, Labour Party (LP)—which he described as riddled with internal conflicts.

“This movement became necessary,” Suswam said, “because the existing parties have failed to present a united and visionary front. The ADC represents a fresh path for progressives and reform-minded individuals.”

However, in a swift reaction, the PDP dismissed the defection of some of its former members to the ADC, branding them as “nomadic politicians” driven by personal ambition.

In a statement, the party said: “We are not part of any coalition with any political group. The individuals promoting this alliance are disgruntled elements who have benefited from the PDP but now seek to weaken it for selfish gain. Our members are advised to ignore such distractions.”

By Taiwo Olatinwo | July 9, 2025