Option A4 voting system deployed in 319 wards as party intensifies preparations for Rivers governorship race
By Ginikachi Njoku / May 22, 2026
PORT HARCOURT, Rivers State —The African Democratic Congress in Rivers State has commenced its governorship primary election across the 319 wards of the state, with party officials and delegates participating in the exercise under the Option A4 voting system.
The primary election, which began on Friday, is being supervised by members of the party’s National Election Committee deployed to monitor the process and ensure compliance with the party’s electoral guidelines.
The exercise marks a significant stage in the party’s preparations ahead of the forthcoming governorship election in Rivers State, as aspirants battle for the ADC ticket in what observers describe as a strategic contest within the opposition party.
Two Aspirants Step Down for Gabriel Pidomson
Ahead of the commencement of voting, governorship aspirants held a closed-door meeting where two of the seven contestants reportedly stepped down in support of Gabriel Pidomson, a former member of the Rivers State House of Assembly and former Secretary to the Rivers State Government.
Among those who withdrew from the race was Henry Ugboma, although reasons for the withdrawal were not officially disclosed at the time of filing this report.
Pidomson is considered one of the leading contenders in the contest owing to his political experience and previous roles in the state government.
Other Aspirants Remain in the Race
Despite the withdrawals, several aspirants remain in contention for the party’s governorship ticket.
Those still participating in the primary include Sokonte Davies, Farah Dagogo, Leloonu Nwibubasa, and Allen Hart.
Party officials say the Option A4 voting process is expected to enhance transparency and credibility in the conduct of the exercise.
ADC Intensifies Political Mobilisation
The commencement of the governorship primary comes amid broader efforts by the ADC to strengthen its political presence in Rivers State ahead of the next electoral cycle.
Political analysts believe the outcome of the primary could shape emerging alliances and influence the opposition landscape in the oil-rich state.
The party leadership has yet to officially announce the final outcome of the exercise as collation continues across the wards.
With the governorship primary now underway, attention remains focused on the ADC’s ability to conduct a transparent process and rally its members behind a consensus candidate capable of challenging dominant political forces in Rivers State.
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