Rivers ADC Faces Fresh Crisis as Atiku Ally Farah Dagogo Emerges Guber Candidate Ahead of Primary
By Tammy Ebieh
E-ISSN:2354-4481
PORT HARCOURT — The internal crisis rocking the Rivers State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) appears to have deepened following the emergence of Farah Dagogo, a known ally of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, as the party's governorship candidate in one faction of the state chapter.
Reports indicate that the development has further polarized the party, with another faction believed to be loyal to former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi reportedly backing Gabriel Pidomson as its preferred governorship candidate ahead of the party's primary election scheduled for Monday, May 25.
Political observers say the emergence of Dagogo has intensified concerns among party stakeholders who view the move as an attempt by forces aligned with Atiku to consolidate control of the party structure in Rivers State. Some party members argue that imposing a candidate perceived to be loyal to the former vice president could undermine the political influence of Amaechi, who remains one of the most prominent figures within the ADC coalition movement.
The development is also seen by analysts as a reflection of the growing rivalry between the Atiku and Amaechi camps at both the state and national levels. The tension comes amid persistent speculation that sections of the ADC leadership have been pressuring Amaechi to support a consensus presidential arrangement that could favour Atiku ahead of the 2027 general elections.
However, Amaechi has repeatedly distanced himself from reports suggesting he would step down for any aspirant. The former minister has consistently maintained support for a transparent and democratic selection process, reportedly favouring direct primaries rather than a consensus arrangement.
Analysts warn that the latest dispute in Rivers State could complicate the party's efforts to strengthen its grassroots structures and meet critical electoral timelines. They note that prolonged internal disagreements may slow down mobilisation efforts, weaken party cohesion, and distract leaders from preparations required to meet the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) deadlines ahead of the 2027 elections.
The Rivers controversy is unfolding at a time when the ADC is grappling with broader questions about its national leadership direction and presidential ticket. With the party's primary election drawing closer, political watchers across the country are closely monitoring whether the ADC can resolve its internal differences and present a united front.
Many observers believe the outcome of the ongoing contest between supporters of Atiku and Amaechi could significantly shape the future of the party. While Atiku remains one of the leading figures within the opposition coalition, Amaechi continues to command substantial influence among party members advocating internal democracy and open competition.
As the May 25 primary approaches, Nigerians and political analysts alike are waiting to see whether the ADC leadership can successfully reconcile competing interests within its ranks and determine the party's direction ahead of the 2027 presidential race. The resolution of the dispute, many argue, will be crucial to the party's ability to build momentum and position itself as a formidable opposition platform in the coming elections.
