The Abia State chapter of the Africa Democratic Congress (ADC) has undergone a major leadership shake-up, electing Chief Emole Onwuasoanya as its new Chairman following the suspension of former chairman Don Norman Obinna, who was earlier relieved of his duties on August 22.
During a meeting held in Umuahia on Tuesday evening, the State Executive Committee also suspended several top party officials Publicity Secretary Chiamaka Peters, Woman Leader Nwannedoga Okpan, and Chief Whip Chibuike Emmanuel over alleged anti-party activities and failure to discharge their responsibilities.
The session, supervised by the Organizing Secretary Ugochukwu Nwaubani, saw strong criticism directed at former acting Chairman Mazi Kanu O. Kanu and State Secretary Uche Ndom, whose absence Nwaubani blamed for derailing previous meetings.
The NEC referenced Article 22, Section 12, Subsection 3 of the ADC constitution as the legal basis for the suspensions. The motion was introduced by Hon. Iroabuchi Alozie and seconded by Ebere Orji, representing Abia Central Zone.
With unanimous support from members present, Chief Onwuasoanya was elected to steer the party until its next Congress.
In his acceptance address, the new chairman expressed appreciation for the confidence reposed in him, pledging inclusive leadership and a renewed focus on strengthening the party’s structure:
“I will carry everyone along, protect party assets, and reposition the ADC for greater accomplishments.”
The meeting also saw the appointment of Rev. Dr. J. P. C. Okeiyi as Acting Publicity Secretary, replacing Chiamaka Peters.
The NEC confirmed that other vacant leadership positions including Deputy Secretary and various LGA Chairmanship seats will be filled during a subsequent gathering.
The development marks a decisive step by the Abia ADC toward restructuring and enhancing internal discipline as it prepares for upcoming political engagements.
