The Edo South Unity Forum, also known as the Edo South Global Coalition, has criticised the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Orhionmwon Local Government Area chapter, over what it described as the public branding of its publicity secretary, Osazuwa Ogiemwonyi, as being involved in financial misconduct without due process.
In a statement jointly signed by its President, Dr. Bright Omoregie, and Secretary, Hon. Charles Osariemen Agbonison, the forum said its concern was not with the party’s internal disciplinary procedures but with the public dissemination of allegations that, in its view, portrayed Ogiemwonyi as guilty before any independent investigation or lawful determination.
The group maintained that every Nigerian is entitled to the constitutional presumption of innocence until proven guilty through a fair, transparent and impartial process, adding that political parties are free to discipline members only in accordance with their constitutions and established procedures.
It argued that publicly accusing an individual of financial impropriety without first establishing the facts through due process amounts to trial by media and could inflict lasting reputational damage, while also eroding public confidence in democratic institutions.
According to the forum, the action of the ADC leadership in Orhionmwon and Edo State appeared to have substituted due process with public condemnation, warning that such an approach could set a dangerous precedent within Nigeria’s political environment.
The forum stressed that disciplinary matters within political parties should be handled in a manner that guarantees fairness, transparency and respect for the rights of all members, irrespective of the allegations against them.
Describing Ogiemwonyi as one of the emerging young political voices from Orhionmwon Local Government Area, the group insisted that no citizen should be publicly labelled a financial offender or subjected to reputational harm without being afforded a credible and impartial hearing.
It therefore called on the ADC leadership at the local, state and national levels to uphold democratic principles by ensuring that disciplinary proceedings comply with the rule of law and the principles of natural justice.
The forum also urged the party to withdraw what it described as the “provocative and prejudicial” portions of the statement issued by its Orhionmwon chapter or, alternatively, make public the evidence and procedures through which Ogiemwonyi was investigated and found culpable.
Reaffirming its commitment to justice, fairness and the protection of the interests of the Benin Kingdom, the Edo South Unity Forum said political parties must remain institutions that uphold accountability, due process and the rule of law rather than platforms for premature public condemnation.
