The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Cross River State has accused a group of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members of trying to take over the party’s structure in the state.

Speaking at a press briefing in Calabar, the party’s vice chairman for the Central Senatorial District, McFarlane Ejah, said, “We condemn in strong terms the actions of individuals who are not members of our party but are attempting to hold meetings in our name. This is morally wrong and democratically unacceptable.”

Ejah explained that some individuals who are not ADC members are planning to set up a committee to mobilise and register members across the 18 local government areas without the party’s approval. He described the move as unconstitutional and an attack on the party’s leadership structure.

“The composition of the purported committee is alien to the leadership of ADC in Cross River State.

“The state leadership was not involved in submitting the names published as members of the committee,” Ejah added.

Ejah warned that the party would resist any attempt to hijack its structure, saying, “Our party stands for justice and people-centred development.

“We will continue to uphold the will of the people and ensure that politics is practised with decorum.”

The development comes amid reports of a clash between two ADC factions in Calabar, which led to police intervention.

The police have advised the public to remain calm, saying the situation is under control.

According to the police public relations officer of the Cross River State Command, Sunday Eitokpah, “Members of the public are advised to remain calm and go about their lawful activities, as the situation is under control.”

The ADC has insisted it is united and has no faction, with the current leadership being the only recognised one. The party is preparing to field candidates in future elections and will uphold the will of the people.