Roy Ofori, African Heritage Global Affairs Editor
In every political movement, there are names that command headlines and there are builders whose footprints quietly shape the road itself. Hon. Kenneth Chibuogwu Gbandi belongs firmly in the latter category: a disciplined party man, an unrelenting mobiliser, and one of the understated architects of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). It was therefore both symbolic and timely that the party conferred on him the ADC Global Leadership Award, a recognition that speaks not to title or theatrics, but to sustained toil and proven loyalty.
The award was formally presented by the ADC South-South Deputy Chairman, Senator Andrew Uchendu, and the ADC National Chief Whip, Elder Festus Igbinoba, underscoring the national weight of the honour and the party’s appreciation for loyalty that translates into tangible results. The ceremony took place in Delta State during a politically significant moment, the official declaration of H.E. Ken Pela (Deacon Kennedy Kawarhiebie Pela), former Labour Party governorship candidate, alongside other former Labour Party candidates, state and local government officials, and party members who collectively defected to the ADC.
That convergence was no coincidence. It reflected the very essence of Gbandi’s politics: bridge-building rooted in trust, persuasion powered by credibility, and grassroots mobilisation anchored on conviction rather than convenience. His political method has never relied on noise or shortcuts, but on patient organisation and steady engagement with people at the base of the political structure.
The ADC Global Leadership Award is reserved for individuals whose service goes beyond rhetoric, leaders whose loyalty is tested in adversity and whose contributions endure beyond election cycles. Presented to Hon. Kenneth Gbandi for his service excellence, loyalty, and unparalleled contributions to building the party, the award reflects the ADC’s philosophy of celebrating leadership across all levels, from national figures to ground-level warriors who live the party’s mission daily. Gbandi’s journey within the ADC is inseparable from the party’s own growth story. Yesterday, he helped stabilise and structure; today, he mobilises and consolidates; and tomorrow, he remains a rallying point for discipline, courage, and strategic expansion.
In an era defined by transactional politics and restless defections, Gbandi represents a different strain of leadership, one anchored in consistency, principle, and backbone. The award citation’s call for him to remain disciplined, focused, bold, and courageous in service to the party and Nigeria is not mere formality; it is a reflection of a man who has repeatedly chosen party-building over political comfort and long-term impact over short-term advantage. His work has never been about personal spotlight, but about strengthening party institutions and inspiring others to embrace integrity, patriotism, and service above self.
The presence of Senator Uchendu and Elder Igbinoba at the presentation sent a clear political message: that the ADC recognises loyalty as power, mobilisation as strategy, and committed party men as the backbone of electoral success. Their joint presentation of the award reinforced the idea that commitment is noticed and work is rewarded within the party’s evolving culture.
Beyond the ceremony, the Delta State event symbolised momentum. The mass defection from the Labour Party to the ADC, led by prominent political actors, illustrated growing confidence in the ADC as a credible national alternative. At the centre of that defining moment stood Hon. Kenneth Gbandi, honoured not only for past contributions, but for the ongoing role he plays in expanding the party’s reach, strengthening its base, and shaping its future.
As the ADC positions itself for the political contests ahead, leaders like Gbandi remind both party faithful and the wider public that sustainable political movements are built by loyal hands guided by clear vision. The ADC Global Leadership Award, therefore, is more than a plaque; it is an affirmation that party builders still matter, and that mobilisation anchored in principle remains the strongest currency in Nigerian politics. Hon. Kenneth Gbandi has earned his place, not only in the records of the ADC, but in the unfolding story of its future.
In his acknowledgement, Gbandi thanked the party for the honour and dedicated the award to Delta State, the ADC–DN Executive, and critical stakeholders whose support made it possible. He also acknowledged H.E. Ken Pela (Deacon Kennedy Kawarhiebie Pela), former Labour Party governorship candidate for the state, for providing the gracious momentum platform, and expressed deep appreciation to the ADC South-South Deputy Chairman, Senator Andrew Uchendu, and the ADC National Chief Whip, Elder Festus Igbinoba, on behalf of the party
African Heritage Magazine, Promoting Excellence, Celebrating African Achievements Worldwide. info@africanheritagemagazine.com /www.africanheritagemagazine.com
