The Pathfinder
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) Interim National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, has stated reasons why former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, and others have not become full members of the ADC.
The National Publicity Secretary speaking with the press in Abuja at the weekend, explained that both Obi and el-Rufai were allowed to complete certain electoral processes within their former political parties.
He said: “They were allowed to finalise pending elections, including by-elections and the selection of governorship candidates, within their legacy parties.”
He reassured the public that both Obi and El-Rufai remained committed to the ADC coalition and would formally join the party after completing those processes.
Addressing concerns about the party’s internal democracy, Abdullahi said: “We have no hidden agenda or preferred candidate. Everyone will have a fair chance in the race for the party’s ticket.”
On legal matters, the interim spokesperson dismissed claims that the ADC was facing major legal issues.
“We are confident in the legality of every step we have taken. We made sure we closed all loopholes the ruling party might try to use against us,” he added.
He also kicked against the recent restriction order issued against Mr Obi by Edo State governor, Monday Okpebholo, describing it as undemocratic and a sign of growing authoritarianism among APC governors.
He pointed to a statement by the governor declaring Peter Obi unwelcome in his state, as an example of this disturbing development.
“Nigeria is a free country, and every citizen has the right to travel freely across the nation. We don’t need visas to move within our own country.
“Since they failed to turn Nigeria into a one-party state, their new strategy is to issue threats, warning us not to visit their states. This is unacceptable and goes against the principles of democracy,” Abdullahi said.
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