By John Dike, Osogbo
Fresh controversy has emerged within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Osun State following the circulation of an alleged list of Primary Election and Appeal Committee members for the Southwest zone ahead of the party’s primaries.
The state chapter of the party on Wednesday distanced itself from the controversial list, declaring it fake, unauthorized and capable of causing confusion among party members and aspirants.
In a statement issued by the State Publicity Secretary, Comrade Abdulsalam Abdulkudus, the party leadership under retired Major Rapheal Ayotunde Towobola, popularly known as Major RAT, insisted that only directives approved by the National Executive Committee (NEC) remain valid and binding on all party structures nationwide.
The party specifically disowned the publication allegedly linked to one Akinbowale Ayodele Omole, who was accused of parading himself as the Southwest Chairman of the ADC.
According to the statement, the purported committee list did not emanate from the recognized leadership of the party in the Southwest and should therefore be disregarded by aspirants, stakeholders and members of the public.
The development comes as the ADC prepares for its primary elections into the State House of Assembly, House of Representatives and Senate scheduled for May 22, 2026.
The party disclosed that the sale of nomination and expression of interest forms began on May 18 at the ADC State Secretariat in Osogbo, while screening of aspirants is expected to hold on May 21.
To coordinate the exercise, the party announced the constitution of screening, appeal and security committees.
Hon. Okandeji Abideen was named chairman of the screening committee, while Hon. Abbis Adedigba will head the appeal committee. The security committee is chaired by Hon. Adesoji Akintunde.
The ADC also inaugurated senatorial committee members and a state collation committee made up of state working committee members, Southwest leaders within Osun and national leaders from the state.
The party urged aspirants to deal only with the recognized Osun State Executive Committee led by Major Towobola in all matters relating to nomination forms and party primaries.
The statement further alleged attempts by unnamed individuals and external political interests to manipulate the party’s internal democratic process within the Southwest region.
ADC warned those spreading what it described as misleading information to desist immediately, stressing that such actions threaten the unity, stability and progress of the party.
Despite the internal tension, the party maintained that its structure in Osun remains united, focused and committed to strengthening the ADC ahead of future elections.
