The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has responded to allegations of internal discord within its coalition, including reports that former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi threatened to withdraw due to perceived preferential treatment of Labour Party's Peter Obi.
ADC Denies Marginalization Claims
Bolaji Abdullahi, the party's National Publicity Secretary, addressed the issue in an interview, dismissing claims of marginalization. He stated that leadership positions were distributed based on political balance and negotiation, not favoritism. Abdullahi acknowledged that disagreements arose over appointments but were resolved through compromise.
He recounted a specific incident where Amaechi expressed dissatisfaction, saying, "There was a time that his excellency went to the national chairman and was threatening to leave the coalition. You know why he felt that the chairman was hand praying Peter Obi, that he was considering everything to Peter."
Rationale Behind Appointments
Abdullahi explained that key positions were allocated to ensure broad participation from various political actors, including Obi's supporters. He noted, "We had two deputies. One of them was brought by Peter Obi… the National Organising Secretary was a Peter Obi man." He also referenced the inclusion of former Aviation Minister Osita Chidoka as part of efforts to strengthen unity.
Coalition Insists Concessions Were Necessary
The ADC maintained that internal compromises were essential for building a strong national platform. Abdullahi stressed that politics requires concessions to accommodate diverse interests, and decisions were aimed at enhancing coalition unity rather than weakening any faction. He rejected claims of toxicity or unfairness, emphasizing that leadership choices were guided by inclusiveness.
