In a significant display of unity and shared purpose, the interim leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), led by former Senate President David Mark and members of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), convened a strategic meeting on Wednesday in Abuja with all 37 state chairmen, including that of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Amid ongoing political speculation about internal disagreements within the party, the gathering sought to dispel rumours of division and to reaffirm support for the ADC’s coalition-building initiatives and broader reorganisation plans.
Speaking to journalists after the closed-door session, ADC spokesman Bolaji Abdullahi explained the objective behind the meeting, stating, “We invited all the state chairmen to reassure them that we have no intention to shove them aside. The purpose is to dispel all the falsehood and rumours making the rounds that we came to hijack the party from them,” he said.
Abdullahi emphasized the leadership’s dedication to an inclusive approach, describing the state chairmen as “partners in building a stronger political party.” He noted that the meeting had been instrumental in restoring and reinforcing trust among party leaders across the country.
“They are leaving Abuja today more assured than ever that they are critical stakeholders in the future of the ADC,” he added.
Addressing recent comments from the party’s former presidential candidate, Dumebi Kachikwu—who had raised concerns about the legitimacy of the coalition process and the emergence of the interim leadership—Abdullahi dismissed the claims, insisting the party’s actions are legally sound.
“A presidential candidate is not an officer of the party; he’s just a member. If anyone has evidence that we have violated our constitution, they are free to challenge it. But so far, no member of the ADC has disagreed with the process,” Abdullahi stated.
Also speaking at the meeting, Hon. Kingsley Ogga, Chairman of the ADC Forum of State Chairmen and Kogi State party chairman, reiterated the unanimous support of the chairmen for the interim leadership and its coalition-driven agenda.