The Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Enugu State, Comrade Stella Chukwuma, has dismissed reports alleging that the party is selling membership cards for ₦5,000, describing the claim as a deliberate falsehood driven by political fear and jealousy.
Chukwuma spoke on Friday at the ADC State Secretariat in Enugu while receiving new members into the party, insisting that the rumour was concocted by opponents unsettled by the party’s growing popularity and rising influence in the state.
According to her, the recent surge in ADC’s visibility has triggered panic among political rivals who now view the party as a credible threat.
“Enugu ADC has become the latest bride in the state, and that has naturally attracted envy,” Chukwuma said. “Enemies are clearly afraid of our rapid growth and acceptance. Just a few days ago, Akanu Ibiam International Airport was practically shut down by the crowd that came to welcome me. I knew they wouldn’t sleep after that, and this ₦5,000 membership card story is the product of their sleepless nights.”
She categorically denied the allegation, stressing that ADC membership registration does not involve any ₦5,000 fee, and warned those behind the rumour to desist or face legal consequences.
“I challenge the purveyors of this falsehood to provide evidence of their claims,” she stated. “Otherwise, they should steer clear and stop misleading the public.”
The ADC chairman urged Enugu residents and supporters of democracy to ignore the rumour and continue registering with the party through their respective wards.
“I call on Ndi Enugu and lovers of good governance to disregard this propaganda and proceed to their wards to get registered,” she said. “This is a desperate attempt to discourage people who have already rejected the ruling party from joining ADC, which has emerged as the credible alternative.”
Chukwuma noted that the ₦5,000 allegation is only the latest in a series of unfounded claims targeted at undermining her leadership. She recalled earlier accusations that she was on the payroll of government, followed by claims linking her to political figures outside the party.
Political observers in the state, she added, have raised concerns over the sustained attacks against her, with some attributing them to gender bias, internal power struggles, or unease over her rising political profile.
Despite the attacks, Chukwuma maintained that ADC remains focused on consolidating its structure and expanding its base across Enugu State.
“Leadership is about influence,” she said. “And judging by the overwhelming support we continue to receive, it is clear that ADC is on the right path. No amount of smear campaigns will distract us from building a strong alternative for the people of Enugu.”
