The South-South Zonal Leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has dismissed reports alleging that its national leader, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, and other regional stakeholders endorsed former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi for the 2027 presidency.

Speaking on behalf of the zonal leadership in a statement issued on Saturday, the South-South Zonal Publicity Secretary, Mabel Oboh, described the reports as “misleading, undemocratic, and a troubling example of how selective narratives can distort political reality.”

The February 27 meeting, held at Oyegun’s residence in Benin, brought together party elders, senior stakeholders and state representatives from Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo and Rivers states.

According to Oboh, the gathering was convened to strengthen internal cohesion, deepen grassroots mobilisation and strategically position the party for future elections.

“These were not casual attendees. They were seasoned political leaders, individuals with decades of experience in governance, party administration and democratic practice,” she said.

“To suggest that such a body would casually abandon constitutional process for an informal endorsement is both inaccurate and illogical.”

Oboh clarified that during the meeting, Amaechi formally informed regional leaders of his intention to seek the party’s presidential ticket, describing the move as a consultation within his geopolitical zone rather than an endorsement.

“Consultation is not endorsement, and courtesy is not coronation. Receiving a prominent son of the South-South who chose to formally brief his regional leaders cannot be twisted into a declaration of support,” she stated.

She emphasised that at no time before, during or after the meeting was any motion moved, resolution adopted, vote taken or consensus reached to endorse any aspirant.

“The leaders did not endorse Amaechi or any other person as this will negate the principle of internal democracy,” Oboh said.

The zonal spokesperson further argued that Oyegun’s political background makes the endorsement claim implausible, noting that as a former national chairman of a ruling political party and a longstanding advocate of constitutional order, he understands the importance of due process.

“It is inconceivable that a leader of his pedigree would undermine the very democratic structures he has spent decades strengthening,” she added.

Oboh also expressed concern over what she described as premature and unverified reports published by some media organisations, warning that such narratives could undermine democratic processes and create unnecessary tension within the party.

“Misinformation in political reporting does not merely mislead the public; it risks undermining democratic processes, fueling unnecessary tension within parties and eroding confidence in institutional procedures. In a fragile political climate, responsible journalism is not optional; it is essential,” she said.

She reiterated that the ADC remains committed to internal democracy, stressing that the power to nominate and elect candidates rests with constitutionally recognised organs of the party and its members, not with a handful of leaders at a zonal consultation.

Reaffirming the unity of the South-South bloc, Oboh maintained that the meeting was focused on structural consolidation and party growth, not premature political alignment.

“The elders of the South-South remain united, disciplined and committed to due process. No endorsement took place. Any narrative suggesting otherwise is false and should be disregarded,” she said.

Amaechi had earlier used the meeting to formally declare his intention to contest the presidency in the 2027 general election.