Clement Jimbo Denies Rumors of Defecting to ADC

Clement Jimbo, a member of the House of Representatives representing Abak/Etim Ekpo/Ika Federal Constituency in Akwa Ibom State, has rejected allegations suggesting he is considering a defection from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). He labeled the claims as malicious and entirely false.

Mr. Jimbo's denial comes in response to a post shared by a Facebook user claiming that he had made arrangements to join the ADC.

In a statement released by Jimbo’s media office on Friday, the allegations were described as 'malicious and libelous,' aimed at misleading the public. The statement reaffirmed his commitment to the APC and highlighted his ongoing participation in party activities.

It stated, “Mr. Jimbo is a dedicated member of the APC, and recently, on March 3, 2026, he led APC delegates from the Abak Local Government Area at the State Congress held at Uyo Township Stadium. Does this seem like the behavior of someone planning to abandon his party?”

The statement also challenged the individual behind the Facebook post to provide evidence backing their claims regarding Jimbo's supposed defection plans.

“The claims are without foundation. Mr. Jimbo has not engaged in any discussions with members of the ADC or entertained any thoughts regarding changing parties. Those spreading this misinformation should be prepared to validate their accusations with proof,” it noted.

Additionally, the lawmaker is currently mobilizing support within the APC for the upcoming Zonal Congress on March 25 and the National Convention scheduled for March 27-28 in Abuja.

The media office stressed the irrationality of abandoning a party that he has significantly supported, particularly during its struggles in opposition in Akwa Ibom State. “A person who has invested so much effort, time, and political capital in the APC cannot realistically be expected to leave it during a period of consolidation,” the statement added.

The official statement concluded by condemning the allegations as an attempt to tarnish Jimbo's reputation ahead of the 2027 elections, encouraging the public to dismiss these allegations as a 'fabricated tissue of lies' rooted in political malice.