In a dramatic turn of events, the Concerned State Chairmen of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) have vehemently rejected the newly appointed national leadership under former Senate President David Mark.
This rejection comes in the wake of the opposition coalition’s controversial takeover, which the chairmen have branded an “orchestrated political coup” threatening the very fabric of Nigeria’s democracy.
In an emphatic statement titled ‘Rejecting the Political Junta by Defending ADC and Nigeria’s Democracy Against Subversion,’ signed by Chairman Amb. Elias Adokwu and Publicity Secretary Godwin Alaku, they denounced the coalition’s maneuvers as a “blatant and reckless subversion” of the party’s constitution and democratic principles. Mark’s ascension to Interim National Chairman, alongside ex-Osun Governor Rauf Aregbesola as Interim National Secretary, was positioned as a strategic move to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections, aiming to thwart President Bola Tinubu’s bid for a second term.
However, the ADC chairmen, including prominent figures like former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, have condemned this coalition-led takeover as an unconstitutional hijack. They assert that it represents a “civilian junta” intent on seizing control through manipulation and backdoor dealings, undermining the party’s integrity and the democratic process.
The statement warns against the potential for unrest, recalling a foreboding assertion from coalition leaders during the tumultuous 2011 elections: “If peaceful change is not possible, violent change is inevitable.” This rhetoric has sparked fears of a resurgence of dangerous political tensions, as the chairmen emphasize the need to safeguard Nigeria’s democratic governance.
They firmly declared that the ADC is not a platform for “political mercenaries or ideological impostors,” urging the coalition to either establish their own party or seek other avenues. “The ADC is not for sale, not for hijack, and certainly not a dumping ground for discredited power brokers,” they stated resolutely.
Echoing a commitment to democratic ideals, the chairmen called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to reject any illegal leadership changes within the party. They also urged Nigerians and civil society to remain vigilant against this “creeping authoritarianism” and to demand accountability from law enforcement regarding unlawful political disruptions.
In closing, the chairmen reaffirmed their role as the legitimate custodians of the ADC, pledging to defend its soul against this perceived assault on democracy. They dismissed allegations from former ADC National Chairman Ralph Nwosu as desperate attempts to salvage his political reputation, further asserting their unwavering dedication to the party’s foundational values.
