By Rafiyat Sadiq
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has explained why former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai are yet to become full members of the party.
Speaking during a press conference in Abuja over the weekend, the party’s Interim National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, said both leaders are still concluding important political processes in their former parties.
According to Abdullahi, Obi and El-Rufai were given time to wrap up responsibilities such as by-elections and the selection of governorship candidates within their previous platforms.
“They were allowed to finish up these internal matters before formally joining the ADC,” Abdullahi said.
He stressed that both men remain committed to the ADC-led coalition and are expected to officially declare their membership once these processes are complete.
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Commitment to Fairness and Party Growth
Addressing concerns about fairness within the party, Abdullahi assured Nigerians that the ADC is committed to internal democracy.
“We have no preferred candidates. Everyone who wants to contest will have a level playing field,” he said.
On rumours of legal troubles facing the party, Abdullahi dismissed the claims. He stated that the ADC has followed all legal procedures carefully to avoid challenges from any opposing party.
“We have taken all necessary steps to ensure our activities are lawful. We have closed every loophole that could be used against us,” he added.
The ADC has been gaining support recently, with several prominent politicians leaving their former parties to join the coalition. One of the most notable developments came with the resignation of Atiku Abubakar from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Although his spokesperson said his resignation was leaked, the move has sparked discussions about a possible new political direction.
In another high-profile defection, the former Director-General of the PDP Governors’ Forum, CID Maduabum, also left the PDP to join the ADC.
Meanwhile, some members of the Obidient Movement, which backs Peter Obi, have warned the ADC against offering its presidential ticket to the highest bidder. They urged the party to maintain transparency and fairness as it prepares for the 2027 elections.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.