The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has declared itself the only political party in Nigeria currently free from individual control, according to its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, who made the statement during an interview on Arise Television’s ‘Prime Time’ on Monday. The declaration came as the party concluded its highly competitive presidential primary election, held simultaneously across all states of the federation. Abdullahi emphasized that the ADC’s internal democracy sets it apart from other political parties, where leadership is often dominated by a single figure. He highlighted that the party fielded three top-tier candidates, each with the capability to surpass President Bola Tinubu in performance.
Abdullahi described the primary as one of the most intense and transparent internal elections he has ever witnessed in his political career. He noted that thousands of party members participated across various wards nationwide, underscoring the ADC’s grassroots engagement and commitment to democratic processes. The level of competition was so fierce that even as he spoke, Abdullahi admitted he could not confirm the winner in his home state of Kwara or in several other states he had been closely monitoring. This unpredictability, he said, reflects the party’s genuine contest for leadership and its departure from the typical winner-takes-all dynamics seen in other parties.
The ADC’s presidential primary was a significant milestone for the party, showcasing its ability to conduct a nationwide election without external interference or manipulation. Abdullahi stressed that the party’s structure allows for multiple strong voices to emerge, making the decision on who should withdraw for the eventual candidate a complex and respectful process. He added that the candidates themselves are all eminently qualified, with proven records in governance, leadership, and public service. This, he argued, strengthens the party’s chances of presenting a credible alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and other opposition parties.
The primary election also demonstrated the ADC’s growing influence and organizational capacity, particularly in states where it has traditionally been marginal. The party’s ability to mobilize voters and conduct a smooth, nationwide election signals its readiness for the 2027 general elections. As Nigeria continues to navigate political challenges and economic uncertainty, the ADC’s emphasis on internal democracy and leadership pluralism may resonate with voters seeking change. The outcome of the primary will be officially announced in the coming days, with the winner expected to emerge as the party’s flagbearer in the next presidential race. This moment marks a turning point for the ADC, positioning it as a serious contender in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
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