The Rivers State Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, Chukwudi Dimkpa, has stated that the party is considering consensus as its preferred method for selecting candidates ahead of future elections, while remaining open to direct primaries where necessary.
Speaking during an interview, Dimkpa explained that the approach aligns with provisions of the Electoral Act, which allows political parties to adopt either consensus or direct primaries in choosing candidates.
He noted that consensus is often more practical, as it reduces costs and promotes unity within the party, while also minimizing disputes that typically arise after primaries.
“Consensus builds unity early and it also avoids all those post primary issues that come up.
“But, we are open to picking the best. If we can’t achieve consensus, we will definitely be on the field doing direct primaries,” he said.
Dimkpa further stated that the party in Rivers State is positioning itself as a people centred platform rather than one driven by powerful individuals or political blocs.
According to him, the party is committed to returning decision making power to ordinary members and the wider public, including residents and business owners, by giving them a voice in determining candidates.
He added that candidates with strong grassroots support are less susceptible to electoral manipulation due to their broad acceptance.
“The ADC in River States, and you can even see on the National, we are people centred, we are not power centred.
“So, the difference is that we are not up to individuals or strong power blocs as being the ones with the authority.
“We are actually taking the power back to the people.
“So, the difference the ADC is going to be doing is that every single member, even the public, the people who reside and do business in River States will have a say.
“So, if we have popular candidates, you can’t rig them.
“People are going to own the process. So, the ADC is actually here to give power to the people and not an individual or a set of power mongers,” he stated.
On youth inclusion, Dimkpa said the party is creating opportunities for young people and women to actively participate in leadership and governance.
He noted that the ADC has reserved significant space for both groups, positioning itself as a platform where emerging leaders can grow without being overshadowed by long established political figures.
Dimkpa added that unlike older political parties where younger aspirants often face barriers, the ADC promotes inclusion, fairness, and wider grassroots participation.
