Ahead of the gubernatorial polls, the African Democratic Congress, ADC, has announced the suspension of its candidate in Rivers State, Tonte Ibraye and his running mate, Tonto Dike, over alleged anti-party activities and insubordination.

Also suspended are the former State Deputy Chairman of the party, Ode Lawrence-Gbagire, the former State Secretary, Eke Iheanyi-Eugene, former Youth leader, Deinma Emmanuel, the former Publicity Secretary, Luckyman Egila and former Legal Adviser, Hamza Victor-Chukere.

The suspension is coming 2 days before the Governorship and state assembly elections slated for Saturday, 18 March, 2023.

In a statement jointly signed by the State Chairman of the party, Leader Sampson, the Deputy Chairman, Alali Ikpoemugh and the state Secretary, Gabriel Patterson-Unyeowaji, the suspension follows recommendations by the state disciplinary committee which was also ratified by the state working committee of the party.

The statement also revealed that the governorship candidate of the party, Mr Ibraye since his emergence, “has created more division in the party, especially with his endorsement of a presidential candidate alongside his running mate and their “co-travellers.”

The statement also said the governorship candidate of ADC and his running mate, did not show any commitment to their campaign for the forthcoming governorship election, alleging that they worked against the senatorial district candidate in their areas.

They called on members of the public to take note, as the suspended individuals do not have the right to speak for the party.

When contacted, the Director General of the Campaign Organization of the ADC candidate, Eke Eugene said, “Sampson lacks the power to suspend them following his earlier suspension from the party.”