Our congresses recorded massive turnout — Sokoto ADC chairman – Tribune Online

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has recorded a strong turnout in its ongoing congress across parts of Sokoto State, with the state chairman, Bello Isiaka, describing the exercise as peaceful and successful.

Speaking to journalists on Friday night after monitoring the exercise in several local government areas, Isiaka said party members came out “massively” to participate, expressing satisfaction with the level of engagement.

“We have gone round and you can bear me witness — the turnout is encouraging. People came out in large numbers, including women and youths. I am very happy with the outcome,” he said.

The chairman noted that the congress, which commenced on April 9, was conducted in multiple local government areas, including Sokoto North, Sokoto South, Kware, Dange Shuni, Yabo among others.

According to him, the exercise was monitored by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), alongside security agencies such as the police and the Department of State Services (DSS), in compliance with laid-down guidelines.

“We formally notified INEC and security agencies, and they were on ground to monitor the process. The exercise has been smooth and in line with regulations,” he added.

On internal disputes within the party, Isiaka dismissed concerns over factionalisation, insisting that the congress would help resolve lingering divisions.

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“The congress is the end of factional issues. Anyone who believes he has supporters should come forward, buy forms and test his popularity. That is the democratic process,” he said.

He also confirmed that the state congress has been scheduled for April 14, despite earlier directives cautioning against such exercises in some states.

The ADC chairman further revealed that a national congress committee, led by a senator delegated from the party’s national leadership, was in Sokoto to oversee the process.

Party members and observers described the exercise as orderly, with visible security presence ensuring calm across the venues visited.

The congress is expected to produce new party executives at various levels, setting the stage for the upcoming state congress and future electoral activities.