February 17, (THEWILL) — Leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Ogun State have intervened in the lingering crisis rocking the party, leading to the reinstatement of the State Chairman, Otunba Femi Soluade, and a chieftain of the party, Hon. Jimi Lawal.
The crisis began after Soluade announced the suspension of Lawal, a former aide to ex-Kaduna State governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, over alleged anti-party activities and an attempt to hijack the party’s structure.
The chairman had said the suspension was necessary to restore stability within the party and ensure continuity ahead of the forthcoming state congress, the date of which has yet to be announced.
In a dramatic turn, the party’s Publicity Secretary, Hon. Olamide Onabajo, subsequently announced the suspension of Soluade, accusing him of leading armed men to disrupt Lawal’s gubernatorial declaration, describing the action as “unruly conduct.”
However, at a peace accord meeting held in Abeokuta, party leaders and critical stakeholders resolved the dispute and called on both men to sheathe their swords in the interest of unity.
In a statement made available to journalists on Monday, Onabajo said the decision to reinstate both leaders followed extensive deliberations aimed at reconciling aggrieved members and strengthening internal cohesion ahead of the 2027 elections.
“This resolution was reached on Monday, February 16, 2026, following a well-attended peace accord meeting held in Abeokuta, where party leaders and stakeholders engaged in deliberations to foster reconciliation and reposition the party for greater success,” the statement read.
It added, “After exhaustive discussions and agreements reached in the spirit of unity and collective responsibility, the State Executive Committee resolved to reinstate Otunba Dr. Femi Soluade as the duly recognised State Chairman of the party.
“Furthermore, the party hereby announces the immediate reinstatement of H.E. Jimi Lawal and Hon. George Taylor.
All earlier suspension notices issued against them are hereby cancelled and declared null and void. They remain valued leaders and critical stakeholders in the growth and development of the party in Ogun State.”
The party reaffirmed its commitment to unity and electoral success, declaring that the Ogun State chapter of the ADC remains united and strategically positioned for the forthcoming elections.
