Nigerians React as Tinubu's Chief of Staff Sends Message to ADC Lawmaker: 'Scatter Them'
Femi Gbajabiamila, the Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, has ignited a political firestorm with his recent remarks directed at Leke Abejide, the sole federal lawmaker representing the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Speaking at Abejide's wedding anniversary event, Gbajabiamila urged the Kogi-born politician to remain within the ADC and actively work to disrupt opposing factions within the party.
Gbajabiamila's Controversial Statement
The former Speaker of the House of Representatives explicitly advised Abejide against defecting to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), despite calls from former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello for such a move. Instead, Gbajabiamila encouraged Abejide to consolidate his position within the ADC, stating, "Don't come to APC. Stay in ADC and scatter them. We like what you're doing. Also, bring Bala Gombe, and we'll support him. Good luck in court."
This statement comes at a critical juncture for the ADC, which is embroiled in a severe leadership crisis between two main factions. One faction is led by Nafiu Bala and includes Abejide, while the other is headed by former Senate President David Mark and enjoys support from prominent opposition figures such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and Rotimi Amaechi.
Background of the ADC Leadership Crisis
The internal conflict within the ADC has escalated to the point where the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has derecognized leaders from both factions pending a court resolution. The Mark-led faction alleges that Abejide and his camp are deliberately destabilizing the party's structure to benefit President Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Gbajabiamila's comments appear to acknowledge Abejide's significant influence within the ADC, noting that the lawmaker has won two consecutive elections on the party's platform and effectively owns its political machinery. This endorsement has further polarized opinions regarding the ADC's future and its role in Nigeria's political landscape.
Mixed Reactions from Nigerians
The Chief of Staff's remarks have elicited a wide range of responses from the Nigerian public, reflecting deep divisions in political sentiment.
Criticism of Gbajabiamila's Approach
Issa Sodiq Ishola voiced strong disapproval, stating, "This further shows these people are only after politics of destruction, demonstrating their evil act publicly is so shameful; at least they should have some courtesy for the office of the president. They reduced the office of the president to nothing but business ventures."
Oseni Olanrewaju also criticized the situation, remarking, "Usurpers dey chase the owners of the house. What an abomination."
Defense of Gbajabiamila's Position
Legacy Loh-Yey defended the Chief of Staff's stance, arguing, "Hon Abejide has won election to the House of Reps on the platform of the ADC twice. He has been their national leader because he occupies the highest elective position in the party. Suddenly displaced politicians from other parties expelled him. Should he sit down and look?"
Showoleemto faulted the opposition coalition's strategy, noting, "The coalition should have registered a new party from the onset; they shot themselves in the legs, and no player will assist their opponent to have an edge."
Broader Political Implications
This development occurs alongside other significant political maneuvers, including reports that Peter Obi recently appealed to Rotimi Amaechi to step down for him in the ADC presidential ticket race. Such activities highlight the intense jockeying for position ahead of the 2027 elections, with the ADC's internal strife becoming a focal point for broader political realignments.
The public reaction to Gbajabiamila's comments underscores the heightened political tensions in Nigeria, where statements from high-ranking officials are scrutinized for their potential impact on party dynamics and electoral strategies. As the ADC leadership crisis continues to unfold, its resolution will likely have far-reaching consequences for the country's political landscape in the coming years.
