The African Democratic Congress (ADC), a key part of the opposition coalition, officially inaugurated its new national secretariat in Abuja on Monday.
However, the event was marked by the absence of notable opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party’s Peter Obi, both of whom the ADC has been actively courting for full membership.
It was revealed that the new ADC headquarters previously served as the presidential campaign office for Atiku Abubakar during the last general election when he ran on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Speaking at the unveiling, ADC National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, quickly dismissed speculation that the choice of location signaled any internal political shift or new opposition realignment.
Abdullahi clarified the tenancy arrangement: “Atiku used to be the tenant of this building, which he used for his presidential campaign. But his tenancy has lapsed. The African Democratic Congress is now the tenant of this building. This is not an indication of anything. It has nothing to do with our movement. This is solely an ADC decision.”
He added that the party remains committed to internal cohesion and fairness ahead of its scheduled February congresses.
Abdullahi stressed that the ADC leadership is working to minimize the internal crises plaguing other parties by adhering to principles of justice and fairness.
He highlighted the party’s relative stability: “We are glad that we have kept disagreements and conflicts within our party relatively low. So, it’s not going to be business as usual. We believe that as long as we continue to uphold the principles that brought us together in the coalition, even when problems arise, we can deal with them.”
Abdullahi gave an example of the party’s commitment to internal agreements: “For instance, the chairman promised all the legacy chairmen across the country that nobody would be sidelined. And you can see that we have kept our word because they are still there. So, if an issue comes up, we’ll deal with it.”
Abdullahi also addressed questions concerning the status of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, and Peter Obi within the coalition, which was launched in July to challenge President Bola Tinubu in 2027.
He confirmed the deadline given to the leaders: “You are aware that former Governor Nasir El-Rufai and His Excellency Peter Obi were given until the end of the Anambra election to make a decision. Now that the election is done, we expect that everybody will come back together fully.”
He confirmed that, for now, the leadership structure remains unchanged: “At present, the status of any leadership positions has not changed from the original arrangement within the coalition and the ADC.”
Addressing party faithful at the unveiling, ADC National Chairman, Senator David Mark, described the new headquarters as a physical testament to the coalition’s ambition to reshape Nigeria’s political future.
Senator Mark stated: “It is a physical testament to our collective resolve to build a greater nation. This ADC coalition is a historic child of necessity, inspired by people’s desire for good governance, greater accountability, and a stronger democracy.”
He added that the complex would serve as the operational nerve center for shaping strategies: “From within these walls, we shall continue to champion policies that will uplift communities, strengthen institutions, and safeguard the democratic foundations upon which our republic stands.”
The ADC has been pushing for all members of the opposition coalition to formally resign from their respective parties and register fully with the ADC, a directive that has encountered resistance from some key figures.
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