“This is a gathering of purpose” – Ex-Gov ’ Liyel Imoke hails ADC convention

A former governor of Cross River State, Liyel Imoke, has described the ongoing 2026 National Convention of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a gathering of purpose.

Imoke while speaking in Abuja at the venue of the convention commended the leaders and members of the coalition party for showcasing defiance and the resolve to participate in the event despite frustrations from the ruling party leaders and the President Bola Tinubu-led government.

The chairman of the planning committee for the 2026 ADC National Convention also highlighted some of the challenges faced by the party in organising the event.

He stated the ongoing convention of the coalition party symbolises Nigeria’s need for a change across all sectors of the economy.

“We gather here today in a defining moment for our nation. This is not merely a convention. It is a gathering of purpose,” Imoke.

Speaking further, the former governor said he is quite optimistic that through unity, Nigeria will defeat its challenges.

“This coming together is not accidental. It is in response to national needs. The challenges facing our country require unity of purpose,” he said.

Also assuring members of the coalition party that the leaders are up on their toes to improvise and contribute their personal resources, even in the face of challenges, Imoke said the ADC presents Nigerians with a fresh opportunity to reform the nation.

“We are all seeing the direction our country is going. We have seen extreme insecurity, as the shrinking democratic space.

“We encountered several obstacles before this convention, legal challenges. There were attempts to prevent us from accessing venues, yet we moved on.

“Even last night, they made efforts to pressure the owner of this event all to cancel our reservation,” the former governor concluded.